HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-023 DPD 2025 Racial Profiling Report March 6,2026 Report No. 2026-023
INFORMAL STAFF REPORT
TO MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
SUBJECT:
Denton Police Department 2025 Racial Profiling Report
BACKGROUND:
Texas Occupations Code § 1701.164 specifies that the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
(TCOLE) collect incident-based data in accordance with the Code of Criminal Procedure Articles
2B.0051 — 2B.0059. Chief administrators of law enforcement agencies that meet the reporting
criteria must submit racial profiling reports to their governing body and TCOLE.
Each agency must file an online annual report by selecting and completing the reporting option
that applies to their particular situation. Reports are filed online through the Texas Commission on
Law Enforcement Data Distribution System (TCLEDDS). The reporting period for the previous
year runs from January 1 st to March 1 st.
DISCUSSION:
The Denton Police Department submitted the attached report to TCOLE on February 26, 2026.
ATTACHMENTS:
2025 Racial Profiling Report
STAFF CONTACT:
Tony Salas
Interim Chief of Police
940-349-7925
Tony.salas@cityofdenton.com
REOUESTOR:
Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
PARTICIPATING DEPARTMENTS:
Denton Police Department
STAFF TIME TO COMPLETE REPORT:
220 hours
Annual Traffic
Contact Report
DENTON POLICE DEPARTMENT
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601 E. Hickory Street,Suite E • Denton,Texas 76205 • (940)349-8181 • FAX(940) 349-7966
February 17, 2026
Denton City Council
215 E. McKinney Street
Denton, TX 76201
Dear Distinguished Members of the Denton City Council:
The Texas Racial Profiling Law requires the Denton Police Department, along with all other law
enforcement agencies in Texas, to collect certain information about motor vehicle traffic stops
conducted by the department's officers. During the past year, the Denton Police Department has
collected traffic and motor-vehicle data for the purpose of identifying and addressing, if
necessary, areas of concern regarding racial profiling practices.
In 2017, the Texas Legislature enacted the Sandra Bland Act, which requires law enforcement
agencies throughout the state to collect additional data and provide detailed analysis about the
department's practices while conducting traffic and motor-vehicle related activity. In addition,
the Texas Legislature enacted HB 3 05 1, which introduced new racial and ethnic designations
that are to be used when documenting traffic-related activity.
The Denton Police Department is a Tier 2 agency for the purposes of reporting racial profiling
data, which adds more requirements to the information that must be documented and submitted
to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement(TCOLE)prior to March 1 each year. Denton
police officers routinely perform traffic stops or motor vehicle stops and utilize body worn
cameras and the patrol vehicle's audio/video equipment to document motor vehicle contacts.
The Denton Police Department fully complies with the Texas Racial Profiling Law by detailing
the gender, race and ethnicity of all persons contacted, issued a citation, or arrested in
conjunction with a traffic stop or motor-vehicle contact. In addition, officers document whether
a vehicle search was conducted, a description of any contraband discovered during the search,
whether an arrest resulted from the contraband found, and whether officers used force resulting
in bodily injury during the traffic stop.
The enclosed 2025 Annual Traffic Contact Report includes a detailed statistical analysis related
to contacts made during motor vehicle stops as well as copies of relevant state law and
departmental policies related to the topic of racial profiling. The analysis confirms there is no
evidence that officers of the Denton Police Department engaged in racial profiling in 2025.
The Denton Police Department General Order 501 prohibits the practice of racial profiling, and
the department is in full compliance with Texas Racial Profiling Law.
Sincerely,
Tony Salas
Acting Chief of Police
City of Denton Police Department
Office: (940) 312-2665
Table of Contents
Requirements of Texas Racial Profiling Law.................................................................................................1
ComplianceChecklist....................................................................................................................................1
AgencyRacial Profiling Report......................................................................................................................3
Dataand Analysis..........................................................................................................................................9
Factors Affecting Outcomes....................................................................................................................10
Demographic Analysis of the City of Denton..........................................................................................10
Traffic Stops for Residents and Non-Residents.......................................................................................13
Traffic Stops by Gender, Race and Location...........................................................................................13
Was Race Known Before the Stop?.........................................................................................................15
Reasonfor the Stop?...............................................................................................................................16
SearchesConducted ...............................................................................................................................17
Reasonfor the Search.............................................................................................................................18
ContrabandFound..................................................................................................................................18
Arrest as a Result of Contraband Found.................................................................................................19
Description of Contraband Found...........................................................................................................20
Resultof the Stop....................................................................................................................................21
Categoryof Arrest ...............................................................................................................................................23
Useof Force During the Stop..................................................................................................................23
ClosingStatement.......................................................................................................................................24
APPENDIX ONE- RACIAL PROFILING LAW...................................................................................................26
APPENDIX TWO-THE SANDRA BLAND ACT................................................................................................32
APPENDIX THREE- BIAS BASED POLICING..................................................................................................49
APPENDIX FOUR- PORTABLE AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDERS..........................................................................51
APPENDIX FIVE- RACIAL PROFILING TRAINING..........................................................................................59
Requirements of Texas Racial Profiling Law
The State of Texas defines racial profiling as a law enforcement-initiated action based on an
individual's race, ethnicity, or national origin rather than on the individual's behavior or on
information identifying the individual as having engaged in criminal activity (Texas Code of
Criminal Procedure Article 3.05). Texas peace officers are prohibited from engaging in racial
profiling and the State of Texas requires that a law enforcement agency,in accordance with Article
2.132 (7)of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, annually report to both its governing body and
the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement (TCOLE), data collected on the race or ethnicity of
individuals stopped for traffic violations and subsequently cited, searched, and/or arrested.
Full text of Texas Code of Criminal Procedure Article 2.131 prohibiting racial profiling is found
in Appendix One. Full text of the Sandra Bland Act, SB 1849 from the 2017 Texas Legislative
Session, is found in Appendix Two.
In addition to an annual racial profiling report, Article 2.132 requires that the police department:
1) Adopt a detailed written policy on racial profiling that defines acts constituting racial
profiling and strictly prohibits such conduct
2) Implement racial profiling complaint procedures and educate the public about the
process for filing a racial profiling complaint
3) Take corrective action against officers who violate the agency's racial profiling policy
4) Collect information on motor vehicle stops related to the race or ethnicity of the
individual stopped, whether a search was conducted, whether the search was
consensual, and whether the officer knew the race of the individual prior to conducting
the stop.
5) Submit an annual report of the information collected to TCOLE and the Denton City
Council.
Compliance Checklist
I. Adoption of Racial Profiling Policy ® Completed
Denton Police Department General Order 501,Bias Based Policing,issued on September 19,2019,
and reissued May 12, 2025, goes beyond statutory requirements and prohibits officers from
engaging in bias policing, racial profiling, or stopping, detaining, searching, arresting, or taking
any enforcement action including seizure or forfeiture activities, against any person based solely
on the person's race, ethnicity,national origin,religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or
expression, economic status, age, cultural group, disability or affiliation with any non-criminal
groups. (See Appendix Three for full text)
II. Complaint Procedures and Public Education ®Completed
Article 2.132 (b)3-4 of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure requires that law enforcement
agencies implement a complaint process on racial profiling and that the agency provide public
1IPage
education on the complaint process. Denton Police Department General Order 501, Bias Based
Policing, covers this requirement. In addition,the department's website has information regarding
bias-based policing, including directions on how to file a complaint of bias.
III. Corrective Actions Against Officers Who Engage in Racial Profiling ®Completed
Denton Police Department General Order 501 mandates disciplinary action up to and including
indefinite suspension for officers who violate the Bias Based Policing policy.
IV. Collection of Statistical Data on Motor Vehicle Stops ®Completed
Article 2.132(b) 6 requires that law enforcement agencies collect statistical information on traffic
stops in which a citation was issued, or an arrest was made because of these stops, including
specific information on the race of the person cited or arrested. Information must also be collected
concerning the searches of persons conducted, the reason the search was conducted, whether
contraband was seized during the search, and a description of the contraband seized. In addition,
information is collected describing the reason for an arrest, and whether physical force resulting
in bodily injury was used during the stop.
V. Perform an audit and analysis of the information collected ®Completed
VI. Indicate whether the race/ethnicity was known before the stop ®Completed
VII. Produce an annual report on police contacts by March 1, 2026 ®Completed
VIII. Adopt a review policy for audio/video documentation of a stop ®Completed
Denton Police Department General Order 704,Portable Audio/Video Recorders,issued 6/26/2020,
and re-issued 4/2/2022, requires officers to activate their audio/video recorder for all enforcement
and investigative contacts, including traffic stops. The policy covers the uploading of the digital
video and specifies the actions to be recorded. (See Appendix Four for full text)
2 1 P a g e
Agency Racial Profiling Report
TOTAL STOPS: 19,112
1. STREET ADDRESS OR APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF THE STOP
A) City Street: 12,174
B) US Highway: 5,243
C) State Highway: 1,591
D) County Road: 56
E) Private Property or Other: 48
2. WAS RACE OR ETHNICITY KNOWN PRIOR TO STOP?
A) Yes: 1,074
B) No: 18,038
3. RACE OR ETHNICITY
A) Alaska Native/American Indian: 93
B) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1,570
C) Black/African American: 4,126
D) White: 8,699
E) Hispanic/Latino: 4,624
4. GENDER
A) FEMALE: 6,755
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 24
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 292
3) Black/African American: 1,569
4) White: 3,428
5) Hispanic/Latino: 1,442
B) MALE: 12,357
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 69
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1,278
3) Black/African American: 2,557
4) White: 5,271
5) Hispanic/Latino: 3,182
5. REASON FOR THE STOP?
A) VIOLATION OF LAW: 2,598
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 38
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 177
3) Black/African American: 539
4) White: 1,215
5) Hispanic/Latino: 629
3 Page
B) PRE-EXISTING KNOWLEDGE: 276
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 17
3) Black/African American: 62
4) White: 112
5) Hispanic/Latino: 84
C) MOVING TRAFFIC VIOLATION: 12,762
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 43
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1,106
3) Black/African American: 2,640
4) White: 5,939
5) Hispanic/Latino: 3,034
D) VEHICLE TRAFFIC VIOLATION: 3,476
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 11
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 270
3) Black/African American: 885
4) White: 1,433
5) Hispanic/Latino: 877
6. WAS A SEARCH CONDUCTED?
A) YES: 973
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 22
3) Black/African American: 302
4) White: 354
5) Hispanic/Latino: 294
B) NO: 18,139
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 92
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1,548
3) Black/African American: 3,824
4) White: 8,345
5) Hispanic/Latino: 4,330
7. REASON FOR SEARCH?
A) CONSENT: 173
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 4
3) Black/African American: 60
4) White: 59
5) Hispanic/Latino: 50
4 Page
B) CONTRABAND IN PLAIN VIEW: 30
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1
3) Black/African American: 8
4) White: 12
5) Hispanic/Latino: 9
C) PROBABLE CAUSE: 271
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 2
3) Black/African American: 102
4) White: 98
5) Hispanic/Latino: 68
D) INVENTORY: 104
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 6
3) Black/African American: 40
4) White: 33
5) Hispanic/Latino: 25
E) INCIDENT TO ARREST: 395
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 9
3) Black/African American: 92
4) White: 152
5) Hispanic/Latino: 142
8. WAS CONTRABAND DISCOVERED?
A) YES: 379
1) ALASKA NATIVE/AMERICAN INDIAN: 1
a) Resulted in Arrest: 0
b) Did Not Result in Arrest: 1
2) ASIAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER: 5
a) Resulted in Arrest: 0
b) Did Not Result in Arrest: 5
3) BLACK: 125
a) Resulted in Arrest: 19
b) Did Not Result in Arrest: 106
5 Page
4) WHITE: 135
a) Resulted in Arrest: 22
b) Did Not Result in Arrest: 113
5) HISPANIC/LATINO: 113
a) Resulted in Arrest: 11
b) Did Not Result in Arrest: 102
B) NO: 594
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 17
3) Black/African American: 177
4) White: 219
5) Hispanic/Latino: 181
9. DESCRIPTION OF CONTRABAND
A) DRUGS: 237
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 2
3) Black/African American: 92
4) White: 85
5) Hispanic/Latino: 58
B) CURRENCY: 0
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 0
4) White: 0
5) Hispanic/Latino: 0
C) WEAPONS: 23
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 9
4) White: 9
5) Hispanic/Latino: 5
D) ALCOHOL: 97
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 3
3) Black/African American: 15
4) White: 31
5) Hispanic/Latino: 47
6 �
E) STOLEN PROPERTY: 1
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 0
4) White: 0
5) Hispanic/Latino: 1
F) OTHER: 28
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 12
4) White: 12
5) Hispanic/Latino: 4
10. RESULT OF THE STOP
A) VERBAL WARNING: 6,603
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 30
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 634
3) Black/African American: 1,602
4) White: 2,920
5) Hispanic/Latino: 1,417
B) WRITTEN WARNING: 1,086
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 6
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 80
3) Black/African American: 244
4) White: 556
5) Hispanic/Latino: 200
C) CITATION: 10,773
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 56
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 841
3) Black/African American: 2,112
4) White: 4,970
5) Hispanic/Latino: 2,794
D) WRITTEN WARNING AND ARREST: 5
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 1
4) White: 2
5) Hispanic/Latino: 2
7 Page
E) CITATION AND ARREST: 95
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 11
3) Black/African American: 37
4) White: 29
5) Hispanic/Latino: 28
F) ARREST: 550
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 14
3) Black/African American: 130
4) White: 222
5) Hispanic/Latino: 183
11. ARREST BASED ON
A) VIOLATION OF PENAL CODE: 474
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 1
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 13
3) Black/African American: 91
4) White: 193
5) Hispanic/Latino: 176
B) VIOLATION OF TRAFFIC LAW: 63
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 26
4) White: 23
5) Hispanic/Latino: 14
C) VIOLATION OF CITY ORDINANCE: 1
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 1
4) White: 0
5) Hispanic/Latino: 0
D) OUTSTANDING WARRANT: 112
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 2
3) Black/African American: 50
4) White: 37
5) Hispanic/Latino: 23
8 Page
12. WAS PHYSICAL FORCE USED RESULTING IN BODILY INJURY DURING STOP?
A) YES: 2
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 0
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 0
3) Black/African American: 1
4) White: 1
5) Hispanic/Latino: 0
B) NO: 19,110
1) Alaska Native/American Indian: 93
2) Asian/Pacific Islander: 1,570
3) Black/African American: 4,125
4) White: 8,698
5) Hispanic/Latino: 4,624
Data and Analysis
Article 2.132 (7) of the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, requires police departments to submit
an annual report to the agency's governing body and the Texas Commission on Law
Enforcement(TCOLE), detailing the race or ethnicity of individuals stopped for traffic violations
and subsequently cited and/or arrested,persons searched, items seized, and physical force used.
(See Appendix One for full text)
The State of Texas Racial Profiling Law requires an analysis of the information collected during
a motor vehicle stop to include:
• Total motor vehicle stops conducted of persons who are recognized as members of five
specified race/ethnicity groups: White, Hispanic/Latino, Black/African American,
Asian/Pacific Islander, and Alaska Native/American Indian.
• Total motor vehicle stops by race/ethnicity to include the number of stops in which a
search occurred, and whether the individual detailed consented to the search.
• Total motor vehicle stops by race/ethnicity to include the number of stops in which
contraband was discovered, and the type of contraband seized.
• Total motor vehicle stops by race/ethnicity to include the number of stops in which
physical force was used, and whether the use of force resulted in injury.
The State of Texas Racial Profiling Law also requires that information related to each complaint
files with the Denton Police Department alleging that an officer has engaged in racial profiling.
9 1 P a g e
Factors Affecting Outcomes
The purpose of collecting and reviewing traffic stop data is to determine whether Denton Police
Officers have engaged in the practice of racial profiling. An analysis of traffic enforcement and
census data of the racial demographics of Denton residents will not indicate whether police
officers have engaged in racial profiling. Motorists contacted by Denton PD officers in 2025
include residents of the City of Denton as well as non-residents.
There are also inherent difficulties in collecting accurate data concerning race or ethnicity of
motorists. Race/Ethnicity is self-reported by the individual. If the motorist refuses to self-report
their race, officers are placed in the position of guessing based on preconceived notions related to
physical characteristics or asking motorists such questions while the motorist has been detained
for a traffic violation.
Several factors can influence the prevalence of each racial group within the study that are not
related to racist behavior by a specific officer. Among these factors are:
• the amount of time devoted to traffic enforcement
• racial make-up of an officer's assigned district
• targeted enforcement devoted to a specific location or problem
• officer discretion regarding which violations warrant enforcement action.
Case studies provide more in-depth information about the nature and quality of contacts between
officers and citizens. To determine whether an officer has engaged in racial profiling of a
motorist, the Denton Police Department investigates individual cases of racial profiling that are
received through the department's internal or external complaint process. Any person who
believes that a Denton police officer has engaged in bias policing or racial profiling may file a
complaint with the department. In 2025, the Denton Police Department did not receive any
complaints alleging racial profiling.
To facilitate the reporting of allegations of racial profiling, the department provides education to
the public specific to racial profiling. The department utilizes its website to provide the public
with information on how to report racial profiling issues. In addition, the department maintains
compliance with TCOLE standards regarding racial sensitivity continuing education training for
police officers. All Denton Police Officers must complete the comprehensive education and
training program on racial profiling established by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement,
including legal aspects, not later than the second anniversary of the date the officer was licensed.
(See Appendix Five for the lesson plan)
Demographic Analysis of the City of Denton
Chart 1 identifies the percentage of the population for the City of Denton and Denton County by
gender and by race/ethnicity category based upon data available from the U.S. Census Bureau.
For the purposes of this 2025 report, the total population of the City of Denton is estimated to be
165,998 and the total population of Denton County is estimated to be 1,045,120.
101Page
The U.S. Census Bureau defines race as a person's self-identification with one or more social
groups. Respondents may report multiple races from the choices of White alone, Black/African
American/African American alone, Alaska Native/American Indian alone, Asian Alone,Native
Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander alone, Two or More Races, Hispanic or Latino, and White
alone-not Hispanic or Latino.
Ethnicity determines whether a person is of Hispanic Origin and is broken out into two
categories: Hispanic/Latino or Not Hispanic/Latino. Hispanic persons may report as any race.
Chart 1 illustrates the estimated City and County race/ethnicity percentages for 2024 as provided
by the U.S. Census Bureau for the City of Denton and Denton County. At the time of this report,
the U.S. Census Bureau did not have population estimates for 2025, therefore, 2024 data was
used.
Chart 1. 2024 US Census Bureau City&County Demographics
City of Denton Denton County
GENDER Number % Number %
Male 80,675 48.6% 518,340 4c).610-1c
Female 85,323 51.4% 526,740 50.4"
2024 Estimated Population 165,998 1,045,120
City of Denton Denton County
RACE/ETHNICITY Number % Number %
White alone 98,603 59.4% 732,629 70.1%
Black/African American alone 18,592 11.2% 131,685 12.6%
Alaska Native/American Indian alone 1,494 0.9% 8,361 0.8%
Asian alone 6,806 4.1% 140,046 13.4%
Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander alone 166 0.1% 1,045 0.1%
Two or More Races 30,046 18.1% 31,354 3.0%
Hispanic or Latino 42,993 25.9% 217,385 20.8%
White alone, not Hispanic or Latino 89,307 53.8% 535,101 51.2%
2024 Estimated Population 165,998 1,045,120
The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement(TCOLE) requires police departments to use five
defined race/ethnicity categories when collecting demographic data for the Annual Traffic Stop
Report. Those categories are Alaska Native/American Indian, Asian/Pacific Islander,
Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and White.
In this report, the Census Bureau population estimates were used for the race/ethnicity categories
of Alaska Native/American Indian, Hispanic/Latino and White. The Census Bureau population
estimates for Asian Alone and Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander Alone were combined
into the category of Asian/Pacific Islander. The remaining population estimate was assigned to
the race/ethnicity category of Black/African American/African American.
111 Page
Chart 2 illustrates the population estimates converted from U.S. Census Bureau estimates for
each race/ethnicity category. The total population estimate for the Black/African
American/African American category was derived by adding the total population for the four
race/ethnicity categories obtained from the US Census Bureau and subtracting that number from
the total estimated population. This calculation allows the inclusion of the US Census Bureau
estimates for persons of multiple races into the Black/African American category.
Chart 2. Conversion of Population Estimates From Census Bureau Categories
City of Denton Denton County
RACE/ETHNICITY Number % Number %
Alaska Native/American Indian 1,494 0.9% 8,361 0.8%
Asian/Pacific Islander 6,972 4.2% 141,091 13.5%
Hispanic/Latino 42,993 25.9% 217,385 20.8%
White 89,307 53.8% 535,101 51.2%
Race/Ethnicity Subtotal 140,766 901,939
2024 Estimated Population 165,998 1,04S,120
Black/African American 25,232 15.2% 143,181 13.7%
Chart 3 shows the estimated City and County race/ethnicity totals compared to the race/ethnicity
data gathered for the 2025 Annual Traffic Stop Report.
Chart 3. City& County Demographics
City of Denton Denton County
GENDER Number % Number
Male 80,675 48.6% 518,380 49.6%
Female 85,323 51.4% 526,740 50.4%
2023 Estimated Population 165,998 1,045,120
City of Denton Denton County
RACE/ETHNICITY Number % Number %
Alaska Native/American Indian 1,494 0.9% 8,361 0.8%
Asian/Pacific Islander 6,972 4.2% 141,091 13.5%
Black/African American 25,232 15.2% 143,181 13.7%
Hispanic/Latino 42,993 25.9% 217,385 20.8%
White 89,307 53.8% 535,101 51.2%
2024 Estimated Population 165,998 1,045,120
12 Page
Traffic Stops for Residents and Non-Residents
An analysis of the race and gender/ethnicity of the motorist stopped compared to the city and
county populations is not complete without reviewing the resident status of the motorists
encountered by Denton officers. Chart 4 below illustrates the race/ethnicity categories for
resident and non-resident motorists contacted in 2025. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in
2025, 45.2% (+8,647) of the motorists were residents of the City of Denton, and 54.8%
(+10,465) of the motorists contacted were not residents of the City of Denton.
Chart 4. Total Traffic Stops for Residents and Non-Residents
Resident Non-Resident Total
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 39 0.5% 54 0.5% 93 0.5%
Asian/Pacific Islander 742 8.6% 828 7.9% 1,570 8.2%
Black/African American 1,924 22.3% 2,202 21.0% 4,126 21.6%
Hispanic/Latino 2,253 26.1% 2,371 22.7% 4,624 24.2%
White 3,689 42.7% 5,010 47.9% 8,699 45.5%
TOTAL 8,647 10,465 19,112
Traffic Stops by Gender, Race and Location
In 2025, Denton officers conducted 19,112 traffic stops, which is an increase of 4.9% (+896)
over the 18,216 traffic stops conducted in 2024, and an increase of 5.2% (+960) over the 18,152
traffic stops conducted in 2023.
Chart 5 below illustrates the race/ethnicity categories for the male and female motorists
contacted in 2025. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 64.7% (N=12,357) of
motorists were male and 35.3%N=6,755)were female.
Chart S. Total Traffic Stops by Gender
Male Female Total
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total
Alaska Native/American Indian 69 0.6% 24 0.4% 93 0.5%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1,278 10.3% 292 4.3% 1,570 8.2%
Black/African American 2,557 20.7% 1,569 23.2% 4,126 21.6%
Hispanic/Latino 3,182 25.8% 1,442 21.3% 41624 24.2%
White 5,271 42.7% 3,428 50.7% 1 8,699 45.5%
TOTAL 12,357 6,755 19,112
131Page
When comparing the race/ethnicity of male motorists, most were White (42.7%), followed by
Hispanic/Latino (25.8%), Black/African American (20.7%), Asian/Pacific Islander(10.3%), and
Alaska Native/American Indian (0.6%).
When comparing the race/ethnicity of female motorists, most were White (50.7%), followed by
Black/African American (23.2%), Hispanic/Latino (21.3%), and Asian/Pacific Islander(4.3%),
and Alaska Native/American Indian (0.4%).
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on the street address or the
approximate location of each motor vehicle contact. These locations are summarized into five
categories: City Street, U.S. Highway, State Highway, County Road, and Private Property/Other
Location. Chart 6 illustrates the location category for traffic stops conducted in 2025. Of the
19,112 traffic stops conducted, most occurred on a City Street(63.7%,N=12,174) followed by a
U.S. Highway(27.4%,N=5,243), State Highway (8.3%,N=1,591), Private Property/Other
Location(0.3%,N=48) and County Road(0.3%,N=48).
Chart 6. Location of Stop
14,000
63.7%
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000 27.4%
4,000
2,000 8.3%
- 0.3% 0.3%
City Street US Highway State Highway County Road Private Property
/Other
■Traffic Stops 12,174 5,243 1,591 56 48
Chart 7 shows the location of the stop for male and female motorists. Both male and female
motorists were contacted most frequently on a City Street, followed by a U.S. Highway, State
Highway, Private Property/Other Location, and County Road.
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Chart 7. Location of the Traffic Stop
Male Female
LOCATION OF STOP Total % Total %
City Street 7,740 62.6% 4,434 65.6%
US Highway 3,529 28.6% 1,714 25.4%
State Highway 11026 8.3% 565 8.4%
County Road 30 0.2% 26 0.4%
Private Property/Other 32 0.3% 16 0.2%
TOTALI 12,357 1 1 6,755
Chart 8 shows the location of the stop by race/ethnicity. White motorists were stopped more
often than all other motorists in all traffic stop locations. For the remaining race/ethnicity
categories, Hispanic/Latino motorists were stopped more frequently in all other locations.
Chart 8. Location of the Traffic Stop
City Street US Highway State Highway County Road Private/Other
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total
Alaska Native/American Indian 60 0.5% 27 0.5% 6 0.4% 0 0.0% 0 0.0%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1,018 8.4% 459 8.8% 84 5.3% 5 8.9% 4 8.3%
Black/African American 2,745 22.5% 1,043 19.9% 323 20.3% 5 8.9% 10 20.8%
Hispanic/Latino 2,880 23.7% 1,332 25.4% 383 24.1% 18 32.1% 11 22.9.
White 5,471 44.9% 2,382 45.4% 795 50.0% 28 50.0% 23 47.9%
TOTAL 12,174 5,243 1,591 56 48
Was Race Known Before the Stop?
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on whether the race/ethnicity of
the driver was known before the stop was conducted. Of the 19,112 motor vehicle contacts in
2025, the race/ethnicity was known prior to the stop in 1,074 (5.6%) of the total stops conducted.
For the remaining 18,038 (94.4%) stops conducted, the race/ethnicity of the motorist was not
known prior to the stop. Chart 9 illustrates this measure for each race/ethnic group.
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Chart 9. Race Known Before the Stop
Known Not Known
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 93 0.52%
Asian/Pacific Islander 48 4.5% 1,522 8.44%
Black/African American 275 25.6% 3,851 21.35%
Hispanic/Latino 213 19.8% 4,411 24.45%
White 538 50.1% 8,161 45.24%
TOTAL 1,074 18,038
Reason for the Stop?
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information regarding the reason motor
vehicle stops occurred. The stop reason is classified as either a violation of law, the officer's
pre-existing knowledge, a moving traffic violation, or a vehicle traffic violation.
A moving violation occurs whenever a traffic law is violated by a vehicle in motion. A vehicle
traffic violation occurs due to faulty equipment, inspection, or registration. As shown in Chart
10, the most common reason for a motor vehicle stop in Denton was a moving traffic violation.
Chart 10. Reason for the Stop
14,000
8.3%
12,000
10,000
8,000
6,000
4,000 0.3%
63.7%
2,000 E 27.4%
0
Violation of Law Pre-Existing Moving Traffic Vehicle Traffic
Knowledge Violation Violation
■Traffic Stops 2,5% 276 12,762 3,476
Chart 11 illustrates the reason for the traffic stop compared to the gender of the motorist
contacted. The majority of male and female motorists were stopped for moving traffic violations,
followed by vehicle traffic violations.
16 1 Page
Chart 11. Reason for the Traffic Stop
Male Female
REASON FOR STOP Total % Total %
Violation of Law 1,646 13.3% 952 14.1%
Pre-Existing Knowledge 202 1.6% 74 1.1%
Moving Traffic Violation 8,168 66.1% 4,594 68.0%
Vehicle Traffic Violation ? 341 18.9% 1,135 16.8%
TOTAL 12,357 6,755
Chart 12 illustrates the reason for the traffic stop compared to the race/ethnicity of the motorist
contacted. The primary reason for the stop for all race/ethnicity categories was moving traffic
violation(66.8%) followed by vehicle traffic violation(18.2%), violation of law (13.6%) and
pre-existing knowledge (1.4%).
Chart 12.Reason for the Traffic Stop
Violation of Law Pre-Existing Moving Traffic Vehicle Traffic
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 38 1.5% 1 0.4% 43 0.3% 11 0.3%
Asian/Pacific Islander 177 6.8% 17 6.2% 1,106 8.7% 270 7.8%
Black/African American 539 20.7% 62 22.5% 2,640 20.7% 885 25.5%
Hispanic/Latino 629 24.2% 84 30.4% 3,034 23.8% 877 25.2%
White 1,215 46.8% 1 112 140.6%1 5,939 46.5% 1,433 141.2%
TOTAL 2,598 276 12,762 3,476
Searches Conducted
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on the number of searches
conducted during traffic stops. Chart 13 shows the number of searches conducted by gender and
by race/ethnicity. Of the 19,112 motor vehicle contacts in 2025, 5% (N=962) of the contacts
involved a search conducted during the stop. Of the 962 searches conducted, 764 (79.4%)
involved male motorists and 208 (21.6%) involved female motorists.
The searches conducted were compared to race/ethnicity categories. When comparing the
race/ethnicity of male motorists, White motorists were searched most often (33.9%,N=259),
followed by Hispanic/Latino motorists (32.2%,N=246), Black/African American motorists
(31.2%,N=238),Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (2.7%,N=21),None of the male Alaska
Native/American Indian motorists were searched.
When comparing the race/ethnicity of female motorists, White motorists were searched most
often(45.2%,N=94), followed by Black/African American motorists (30.8%,N=64),
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Hispanic/Latino motorists (23.1%,N=48), Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (0.5%,N1), and
Alaska Native/American Indian (0.5%,N=1).
Chart 13. Search Conducted During Traffic Stop
MALE FEMALE TOTAL
Searched Not Searched Searched Not Searched Searched Not Searched
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 69 0.6% 1 0.5% 23 0.4% 1 0.1% 92 0.5%
Asian/Pacific Islander 21 2.7% 1,257 10.8% 1 0.5% 291 4.4% 12 1.2% 1,548 8.5%
Black/African American 238 31.2% 2,319 20.0% 64 30.8% 1,505 23.0% 302 31.4% 3,824 21.1%
Hispanic/Latino 246 32.2% 2,936 25.3% 48 23.1% 1,394 21.3% 294 30.6% 4,330 23.9%
White 259 33.9% 5,012 43.2% 94 45.2% 3,334 50.9% 353 36.7% 8,346 46.0%
TOTAL 764 100.0% 11,593 208 6,547 1 1 962 1 18,140
Reason for the Search
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on the reason a search was
conducted. The search reasons are consent, contraband in plain view, probable cause, inventory,
and incident to arrest.
Chart 14 illustrates the reason the search was conducted compared to each race/ethnicity
category. Of these 973 searches, 17.8% (N=173)were consent searches, 3.1% (N=30)were
contraband in plain view searches, 27.9% (N=271) were probable cause searches, 10.7%
(N=104) were inventory searches, and 40.6% (N=395) were searches incident to arrest.
The reason for the search was also compared to race/ethnicity categories. Search Incident to
Arrest was the most frequent search reason for all race/ethnicity categories except for
Black/African American and Alaska Native/American Indian motorists. For those two races,
most frequent search reason was Probable Cause.
Chart 14. Reason for the Search
Consent Plain View Probable Cause Inventory Incident to Arrest Total Searches
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 0.4% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 0.1%
Asian/Pacific Islander 4 2.3% 1 3.3% 2 0.7% 6 5.8% 9 2.3% 22 2.3%
Black/African American 60 34.7% 8 26.7% 102 37.6% 40 38.5% 92 23.3% 302 31.0%
Hispanic/Latino 50 28.9% 9 30.0% 68 25.19K. 25 24.0% 142 35.9% 294 30.2%
White 59 34.1% 1 12 140.0%1 98 1 36.2% 33 31.7% 152 38.5% 354 36.4%
TOTALI 173 1 30 1 1 271 1 104 395 973
Contraband Found
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on contraband found during a
search. Chart 15 illustrates contraband found during a search for male and female motorists, as
ISIPage
well as by race/ethnicity. Of the 973 total searches conducted in 2025, contraband was found in
379 (39%) of the searches and not found in 594 (61%) of the searches.
Chart 15.Contraband Found
MALE FEMALE TOTAL CONTRABAND
Found Not Found Found Not Found Found Not Found
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 1.2% 0 0.0% 1 0.3% 0 0.0%
Asian/Pacific Islander 4 1.3% 17 3.6% 1 1.2% 0 0.0% 5 1.3% 17 2.9%
Black/African American 101 33.9% 137 29.3% 24 29.6% 40 31.5% 125 33.0% 177 29.8%
Hispanic/Latino 92 30.9% 154 33.0% 21 25.9% 27 21.3% 113 29.8% 181 30.5%
White 101 1 33.9% 159 34.0% 34 42.0% 60 47.2% 135 35.6% 219 36.9%
TOTALI 298 467 1 81 127 379 594
Of the 379 searches where contraband was found, 298 (78.6%) involved male motorists and 81
(21.4%) involved female motorists.
The total number of stops in which contraband was found was compared to race/ethnicity
categories. When comparing the race/ethnicity of male motorists, contraband was found most
often for Black/African American (33.9%,N=101) and White motorists (33.9%,N=101),
followed by Hispanic/Latino motorists (30.9%,N=92), Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (1.3%,
N=4). Contraband was not found in searches of the male Alaska Native/American Indian
motorists.
When comparing the race/ethnicity of female motorists, contraband was found most often for
White motorists (42%,N=34), followed by Black/African American motorists (29.6%,N=24),
Hispanic/Latino motorists (25.9%,N=21), Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (1.2%,N=1), and
Alaska Native/American Indian motorists (1.2%,N=1).
Arrest as a Result of Contraband Found
The Denton Police Department is also required to collect information on whether an arrest
resulted because of the contraband found. Chart 16 shows the number of arrests that occurred
due to contraband being found during the search. Complete information on the outcomes of all
2025 motor vehicle stops is found below in the section Results of a Stop.
Previously, the Denton Police Department counted these numbers by including all Traffic Stops
where contraband was found AND an arrest was made, only excluding arrests made due to
Outstanding Warrants. However, this approach does not encapsulate the true depiction of
motorists arrested as a result of contraband found. We found DWI arrests skewed the accurate
representation of the data. Therefore, the updated method for analyzing the data now removes
DWI arrests in which alcohol was found as a contraband type.
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Of the 379 searches in which an officer found contraband, 52 (13.72%) arrests occurred as a
results of that contraband. Of those arrests, 39 (75%) involved male motorists and 13 (25%)
involved female motorists.
Chart 16. Motorists Arrested as a Result of Contraband Found
MALE FEMALE TOTAL
YES NO YES NO YES NO
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 1.5% 0 0.0% 1 0.3%
Asian/Pacific Islander 0 0.0% 4 1.5% 0 0.0% 1 1.5% 0 0.0% 5 1.5%
Black/African American 16 41.0% 85 32.8% 3 23.1% 21 30.9% 19 36.5% 106 32.4%
Hispanic/Latino 9 23.1% 83 32.0% 2 15.4% 19 27.9% 11 21.2% 102 31.2%
White 14 35.9% 87 33.6% 8 61.5% 26 38.2% 22 42.3% 113 34.6%
TOTALI 39 1 259 1 13 1 1 68 1 1 52 1 327
Of the 39 male motorists arrested for contraband found during the search, Black/African
American motorists were arrested most often (41.0%,N=16), followed by White motorists
(35.9%,N=14), Hispanic/Latino motorists (23.1%,N=9), and no arrests due to contraband found
for Asian/Pacific Islander motorists and Alaska Native/American Indian motorists.
Of the 13 female motorists arrested for contraband found during the search, White motorists
were arrested most often (61.5%,N=8), followed by Black/African American motorists (23.1%,
N=3), Hispanic/Latino motorists (15.4%,N=2), and no arrests due to contraband found for
Asian/Pacific Islander motorists and Alaska Native/American Indian motorists.
Description of Contraband Found
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on the type of contraband found
during a search. The contraband categories are Drugs, Currency, Weapons, Alcohol, Stolen
Property, and Other. It is important to note that multiple types of contraband may be seized
during a search,but only one category of contraband is entered in the database for the purposes
of capturing racial profiling data.
Chart 17 illustrates the type of contraband found compared to the race/ethnicity of the person
searched. Of the 386 searches in which contraband was found, a total of 237 (61.4%) involved
drugs, 0 (0.0%) involved currency, 23 (6%) involved weapons, 97 (25.1%) involved alcohol, 1
(0.3%) involved stolen property, and 28 (7.3%) involved other types of contraband.
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Chart 17.Types of Contraband Found
Drugs Currency Weapons Alcohol Stolen Property Other Total
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 1.0% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 0.3%
Asian/Pacific Islander 2 0.8% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 3 3.1% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 5 1.3%
Black/African American 92 38.8% 0 0.0% 9 39.1% 15 15.5% 0 0.0% 12 42.9% 128 33.2%
Hispanic/Latino 58 24.5% 0 0.0% 5 21.7% 47 48.5% 1 100.0% 4 14.3% 115 29.8%
White 85 35.9% 0 0.0% 9 39.1% 31 32.0% 0 0.0% 12 42.9% 137 35.5%
TOTAL 237 0 23 97 1 28 386
Result of the Stop
Chart 18 illustrates the enforcement actions taken as a result of motor vehicle contacts for each
race/ethnicity category. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 6,603 (34.5%)resulted in
a verbal warning, 1,086 (5.7%)resulted in a written warning, 10,773 (56.4%) resulted in citation,
5 (0.03%)resulted in a written warning and arrest, 95 (0.5%)resulted in a citation and arrest, and
550 (2.9%)resulted in an arrest.
Chart 18. Enforcement Outcomes of Traffic Stops
Verbal Warning Written Warning Citation Written Warning Citation and Arrest All Stops
&Arrest Arrest
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 30 0.5% 6 0.6% 56 0.56 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 0.2% 93 0.5%
Asian/Pacific Islander 634 9.6% 80 7.4% 841 7.8% 0 0.0% 1 1.1% 14 2.5% 1,570 8.2%
Black 1,602 24.3% 244 22.5% 2,112 19.6% 1 20.0% 37 38.9% 130 23.6% 4,126 21.6%
Hispanic/Latino 1,417 21.5% 200 18.4% 2,794 25.9% 2 40.0% 28 29.5% 183 33.3% 4,624 24.2%
White 2,920 44.2% 556 51.2% 4,970 46.1% 2 40.0% 29 30.5% 222 40.4% 8,699 45.5%
TOTALI 6,603 1 1 1,086 1170,7731 1 5 1 1 95 1 1 550 1 119,1121
Chart 19 illustrates the race/ethnicity of the 11,423 motorists cited or arrested during a traffic
stop in 2025. Of the motorists receiving citations and/or arrests, most were White motorists
(45.7%,N=5,223), followed by Hispanic/Latino motorists (26.3%,N=3,007), Black/African
American motorists (20.0%,N=2,280), Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (7.5%,N=856), and
Alaska Native/American Indian motorists (0.5%,N=57).
Chart 19. Citations and Arrests Resulting from Traffic Stops
Citation
Written Warning Citation and Arrest Total Citations
&Arrest Arrest and/or Arrests
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 56 0.5% 0 0.0% 0 0.0% 1 0.2% 57 0.5%
Asian/Pacific Islander 841 7.8% 0 0.0% 1 1.1% 14 2.5% 856 7.5%
Black/African American 2,112 19.6% 1 20.0% 37 38.9% 130 23.6% 2,280 20.0%
Hispanic/Latino 2,794 25.9% 2 40.0% 28 29.5% 183 33.3% 3,007 26.3%
White 4,970 46.1% 2 40.0% 29 30.5% 222 40.4% 5,223 45.7%
TOTALI 10,773 5 95 550 11,423
21 Page
Chart 20 illustrates the comparison of the ticketed or arrested motorists to the total number of
traffic stops. The chart also compares it to the city and county population estimates.
Chart 20. Comparison of Citations and Arrests to City/County Population
Total Traffic Stops Citation/Arrest Cites/Arrest as City Population County Population
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % %of Total Stops Total I % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 93 0.5% 57 0.50% 61.3% 1,494 0.9% 8,361 0.8%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1,570 8.2% 856 7.5% 54.5% 6,972 4.2% 141,091 13.5%
Black/African American 4,126 21.6% 2,280 20.0% 55.3% 25,232 15.2% 143,181 13.7%
Hispanic/Latino 4,624 24.2% 3,007 26.3% 65.0% 42,993 25.9% 217,385 20.8%
White 8,699 45.5% 5,223 45.7% 60.0% 89,307 53.8% 535,101 1 51.2%
TOTALI 19,112 1 11,423 1 1165,999 11,045,1201
White Motorists. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 45.5% (N=8,699) of the
motorists were White. Of the 11,423 motorists cited or arrested, 45.7% (N=5,223) were
White, which is 60.0% of all White motorists contacted. White population is estimated to
be 53.8% (N=89,307) of the city population and 51.2% (N=535,101) of the county
population.
Hispanic/Latino Motorists. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 24.2%
(N=4,624) of the motorists were Hispanic/Latino. Of the 11,423 motorists cited or
arrested, 26.3% (N=3,007)were Hispanic/Latino, which is 65% of all Hispanic/Latino
motorists contacted. Hispanic/Latino population is estimated to be 25.9% (N=42,993) of
the city population and 20.8% (N=217,385) of the county population.
Black/African American Motorists. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025,
21.6% (N=4,126) of the motorists were Black/African American. Of the 11,423
motorists cited or arrested, 20.0% (N=2,280)were Black/African American,which is
55.3% of all Black/African American motorists contacted. Black/African American
population is estimated to be 15.2% (N=25,232) of the city population and 13.7%
(N=143,181) of the county population.
Asian/Pacific Islander Motorists. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 8.2%
(N=1,570) of the motorists were Asian/Pacific Islander. Of the 11,423 motorists cited or
arrested, 7.5% (N=856) were Asian/Pacific Islander, which is 54.5% of all Asian/Pacific
Islander motorists contacted. Asian/Pacific Islander population is estimated to be 4.2%
(N=6,972) of the city population and 13.5% (N=141,091) of the county population.
Alaska Native/American Indian. Of the 19,112 traffic stops conducted in 2025, 0.5%
(N=93) of the motorists were Alaska Native/American Indian. Of the 11,423 motorists
cited or arrested, 0.5% (N=57) were Alaska Native/American Indian, which is 61.3% of
all Alaska Native/American Indian motorists contacted. Alaska Native/American Indian
population is estimated to be 0.9% (N=1,493) of the city population and 0.8% (N=8,361)
of the county population.
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Category of Arrest
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on the reason a motorist was
arrested during a traffic stop. The arrests are summarized into four categories: Violation of Penal
Code, Violation of Traffic Law, Violation of City Ordinance, or Outstanding Warrant.
Chart 21 shows the reason for arrest calculated for each race/ethnicity category. Of the 19,112
traffic stops conducted in 2025, 650 (3.4%) resulted in arrest. Of the total arrests made, 474
(72.9%)were based on violation of penal code, 63 (9.7%)were based on a violation of traffic
law, 112 (17.2%)were for an outstanding warrant, and 1 (0.2%)were based on violation of city
ordinance.
Of the 650 motorists arrested during a traffic stop, most were White (38.9%,N=253), followed
by Hispanic/Latino motorists (32.8%,N=213), Black/African American motorists (25.8%,
N=168),Asian/Pacific Islander motorists (2.3%, N=15), and Alaska Native/American Indian
motorists (0.2%,N=1).
Chart 21.Reason for Arrest During Traffic Stop
Violation of Penal Violation of Violation of City Outstanding
Total
Code Traffic Law Ordinance Warrant
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total % Total % Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 1 0.2% 0 0.0% 0 0 0.0% 1 0.2%
Asian/Pacific Islander 13 2.7% 0 0.0% 0 - 2 1.8% 15 2.3%
Black/African American 91 19.2% 26 41.3% 1 100.0% 50 44.6% 168 25.8%
Hispanic/Latino 176 37.1% 14 22.2% 0 - 23 20.5% 213 32.8%
White 193 40.7% 1 23 1 36.5% 1 0 37 1 33.0% 1 253 38.9%
TOTALI 474 63 1 1 1 1 112 1 1 650
Use of Force During the Stop
The Denton Police Department is required to collect information on whether the physical force
was used during a stop, and if injury occurred because of that physical force. Chart 22 below
illustrates the use of force for each race/ethnicity category. Of the 19,112 motor vehicle contacts
in 2025, a total of 2 (0.01%) of these motor vehicle stops resulted in injury because of the use of
physical force.
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Chart 22. Use of Physical Force Resulting in Bodily Injury
No Force Used Force Used-Injury
RACE/ETHNICITY Total % Total %
Alaska Native/American Indian 93 0.5% 0 0.0%
Asian/Pacific Islander 1,570 8.2% 0 0.0%
Black/African American 4,125 21.6% 1 50.0%
Hispanic/Latino 4,624 24.2% 0 0.0%
White 8,698 45.5% 1 50.0%
TOTAL 19,110 2
Chart 23 contains a summary of the traffic stops involving physical force resulting in bodily
injury to a motorist. One of the injured motorists was a White male, and one was a
Black/African American male.
Chart 23.Summary of Traffic Stops Involving Physical Force Resulting in Bodily Injury to a Motorist
DETAILS SUMMARY
The vehicle was stopped for a moving traffic violation(failing to maintain lanes,no signaling). The officer
informed the driver for the reason for the stop.The driver began to argue over the reason for the stop.The
driver then stated that he was on his phone using his Uber app picking up passengers.The driver then
refused to give the officer his license,and began to record.The driver was observed looking dow to his gear
shifter multiple times during the conversation.Due to the aforementioned behavior the officer thought the
25020760-2/6/2025 2:50:00 AM- driver might attempt to flee and placed the driver under arrest for failing to signal and failure to Identify.
400 BLOCK OF S 135 SERVICE ROAD; The officer gave the driver multiple verbal commands to exit the vehicle in which the driver refused.The
A BLACK MALE WAS STOPED FOR A officer attempted to grab the drivers arm to pull him out of the vehicle,but the driver pulled his arm away
MOVING TRAFFIC VIOLATION. still resisting to exit the vehicle.Officers warned the driver about using Presidia gel if he did not comply.
The driver still refused to exit the vehcile. Presidia Gel was then used and effective in gaining compliance.
The driver was placed in handcuffs and escorted to a patrol vehicle.The driver requested medical attention
and Denton FD responded along with another officer and decontamination solution.The officer attempted
to use the decontamination solution on the drivers face,however the driver continued to argue and
declined the solution.The driver was transported to the hospital where he received medical attention and
clearance.Once cleared the driver was transported to the Jail.
The vehicle was stopped for a moving traffic violation(driving the wrong way on a one-way). The officer
approached to vehicle which contained the driver and a passenger.The driver stated they were coming
25083786-5/MULL 5 Y STREE ;A from Grapevine but did not state where they are going when asked by the officer. The officer asked the
20 T M A/MULBERRY STREET;A driver to turn off the vehicle,however the driver sped off at a high rate of speed driving down Mulberry
WHITE MALE WAS STOPPED FORA
MOVING TRAFFIC VIOLATION Street.A different officer located the crashed abandoned car,but the suspects fled on foot.The driver was
eventually found and force to the ground using grappling techniques.The driver was placed under arrest
for Evading Arrest or Detention with a Vehicle.The driver was transported to the City of Denton Jail.
Closing Statement
In summary, the Denton Police Department prohibits the practice of racial profiling and is in full
compliance with all relevant Texas laws concerning racial profiling, including the existence of a
formal policy prohibiting racial profiling. The Department collects data regarding traffic stops in
compliance with the law,trains officers regarding racial profiling,provides a formalized complaint
process, and educates the public regarding the complaint process. A review of internal
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administrative records indicates that the Department did not receive any complaints alleging racial
profiling in 2025.
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APPENDIX ONE - RACIAL PROFILING LAW
Texas Code of Criminal Procedure
Art. 2.131. RACIAL PROFILING PROHIBITED.
A peace officer may not engage in racial profiling.
Added by Acts 2001,77th Leg.,ch. 947, Sec. 1,ef£ Sept. 1,2001.
Art. 2.132. LAW ENFORCEMENT POLICY ON RACIAL PROFILING.
(a) In this article:
(1) "Law enforcement agency" means an agency of the state, or of a county,
municipality, or other political subdivision of the state, that employs peace officers who
make motor vehicle stops in the routine performance of the officers' official duties.
(2) "Motor vehicle stop" means an occasion in which a peace officer stops a motor
vehicle for an alleged violation of a law or ordinance.
(3) "Race or ethnicity" means the following categories:
(A) Alaska native or American Indian;
(B) Asian or Pacific Islander;
(C) black;
(D) white; and
(E) Hispanic or Latino.
(b) Each law enforcement agency in this state shall adopt a detailed written policy on racial
profiling. The policy must:
(1) clearly define acts constituting racial profiling;
(2) strictly prohibit peace officers employed by the agency from engaging in racial
profiling;
(3) implement a process by which an individual may file a complaint with the agency if
the individual believes that a peace officer employed by the agency has engaged in racial
profiling with respect to the individual;
(4) provide public education relating to the agency's compliment and complaint process,
including providing the telephone number, mailing address, and e-mail address to make a
compliment or complaint with respect to each ticket, citation, or warning issued by a
peace officer;
(5) require appropriate corrective action to be taken against a peace officer employed by
the agency who, after an investigation, is shown to have engaged in racial profiling in
violation of the agency's policy adopted under this article;
(6) require collection of information relating to motor vehicle stops in which a ticket,
citation, or warning is issued and to arrests made as a result of those stops, including
information relating to:
(A) the race or ethnicity of the individual detained;
(B) whether a search was conducted and, if so, whether the individual detained
consented to the search;
(C) whether the peace officer knew the race or ethnicity of the individual detained
before detaining that individual;
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(D) whether the peace officer used physical force that resulted in bodily injury, as
that term is defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code, during the stop;
(E) the location of the stop; and
(F) the reason for the stop; and
(7) require the chief administrator of the agency, regardless of whether the administrator
is elected, employed, or appointed, to submit an annual report of the information
collected under Subdivision(6)to:
(A) the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; and
(B) the governing body of each county or municipality served by the agency, if the
agency is an agency of a county, municipality, or other political subdivision of the
state.
(c) The data collected as a result of the reporting requirements of this article shall not constitute
prima facie evidence of racial profiling.
(d) On adoption of a policy under Subsection (b), a law enforcement agency shall examine the
feasibility of installing video camera and transmitter-activated equipment in each agency law
enforcement motor vehicle regularly used to make motor vehicle stops and transmitter-activated
equipment in each agency law enforcement motorcycle regularly used to make motor vehicle
stops. The agency also shall examine the feasibility of equipping each peace officer who
regularly detains or stops motor vehicles with a body worn camera, as that term is defined by
Section 1701.651, Occupations Code. If a law enforcement agency installs video or audio
equipment or equips peace officers with body worn cameras as provided by this subsection, the
policy adopted by the agency under Subsection(b) must include standards for reviewing video
and audio documentation.
(e) A report required under Subsection(b)(7) may not include identifying information about a
peace officer who makes a motor vehicle stop or about an individual who is stopped or arrested
by a peace officer. This subsection does not affect the collection of information as required by a
policy under Subsection(b)(6).
(f) On the commencement of an investigation by a law enforcement agency of a complaint
described by Subsection(b)(3) in which a video or audio recording of the occurrence on which
the complaint is based was made, the agency shall promptly provide a copy of the recording to
the peace officer who is the subject of the complaint on written request by the officer.
(g) On a finding by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement that the chief administrator of a
law enforcement agency intentionally failed to submit a report required under Subsection(b)(7),
the commission shall begin disciplinary procedures against the chief administrator.
(h) A law enforcement agency shall review the data collected under Subsection(b)(6)to identify
any improvements the agency could make in its practices and policies regarding motor vehicle
stops.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81stLeg.,R.S., Ch. 1172(HB. 3389),Sec. 25, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg.,R.S., Ch. 93 (S.B. 686), Sec. 2.05, eff.May 18, 2013.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 173(H.B. 3051), Sec. 1, eff.September 1, 2017.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 950(S.B. 1849), Sec. 5.01, eff. September 1, 2017.
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Art. 2.133. REPORTS REQUIRED FOR MOTOR VEHICLE STOPS.
(a) In this article, "race or ethnicity" has the meaning assigned by Article 2.132(a).
(b) A peace officer who stops a motor vehicle for an alleged violation of a law or ordinance
shall report to the law enforcement agency that employs the officer information relating to the
stop, including:
(1) a physical description of any person operating the motor vehicle who is detained as a
result of the stop, including:
(A) the person's gender; and
(B) the person's race or ethnicity, as stated by the person or, if the person does not
state the person's race or ethnicity, as determined by the officer to the best of the
officer's ability;
(2) the initial reason for the stop;
(3) whether the officer conducted a search as a result of the stop and, if so, whether the
person detained consented to the search;
(4) whether any contraband or other evidence was discovered in the course of the search
and a description of the contraband or evidence;
(5) the reason for the search, including whether:
(A) any contraband or other evidence was in plain view;
(B) any probable cause or reasonable suspicion existed to perform the search; or
(C) the search was performed as a result of the towing of the motor vehicle or the
arrest of any person in the motor vehicle;
(6) whether the officer made an arrest as a result of the stop or the search, including a
statement of whether the arrest was based on a violation of the Penal Code, a violation of
a traffic law or ordinance, or an outstanding warrant and a statement of the offense
charged;
(7) the street address or approximate location of the stop;
(8) whether the officer issued a verbal or written warning or a ticket or citation as a result
of the stop; and
(9) whether the officer used physical force that resulted in bodily injury, as that term is
defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code, during the stop.
(c) The chief administrator of a law enforcement agency, regardless of whether the administrator
is elected, employed, or appointed, is responsible for auditing reports under Subsection (b) to
ensure that the race or ethnicity of the person operating the motor vehicle is being reported.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81stLeg., R.S., Ch. 1172(H.B. 3389),Sec. 26, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 950(S.B. 1849), Sec. 5.02, eff. September 1, 2017.
Art. 2.134. COMPILATION AND ANALYSIS OF INFORMATION COLLECTED.
(a) In this article:
(1) "Motor vehicle stop" has the meaning assigned by Article 2.132(a).
(2) "Race or ethnicity" has the meaning assigned by Article 2.132(a).
(b) A law enforcement agency shall compile and analyze the information contained in each
report received by the agency under Article 2.133. Not later than March 1 of each year, each law
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enforcement agency shall submit a report containing the incident-based data compiled during the
previous calendar year to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and, if the law
enforcement agency is a local law enforcement agency, to the governing body of each county or
municipality served by the agency.
(c) A report required under Subsection(b)must be submitted by the chief administrator of the
law enforcement agency, regardless of whether the administrator is elected, employed, or
appointed, and must include:
(1) a comparative analysis of the information compiled under Article 2.133 to:
(A) evaluate and compare the number of motor vehicle stops, within the applicable
jurisdiction, of persons who are recognized as racial or ethnic minorities and persons
who are not recognized as racial or ethnic minorities;
(B) examine the disposition of motor vehicle stops made by officers employed by the
agency, categorized according to the race or ethnicity of the affected persons, as
appropriate, including any searches resulting from stops within the applicable
jurisdiction; and
(C) evaluate and compare the number of searches resulting from motor vehicle stops
within the applicable jurisdiction and whether contraband or other evidence was
discovered in the course of those searches; and
(2) information relating to each complaint filed with the agency alleging that a peace
officer employed by the agency has engaged in racial profiling.
(d) A report required under Subsection(b) may not include identifying information about a
peace officer who makes a motor vehicle stop or about an individual who is stopped or arrested
by a peace officer. This subsection does not affect the reporting of information required under
Article 2.133(b)(1).
(e) The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement, in accordance with Section 1701.162,
Occupations Code, shall develop guidelines for compiling and reporting information as required
by this article.
(f) The data collected as a result of the reporting requirements of this article shall not constitute
prima facie evidence of racial profiling.
(g) On a finding by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement that the chief administrator of a
law enforcement agency intentionally failed to submit a report required under Subsection(b), the
commission shall begin disciplinary procedures against the chief administrator.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. ], 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2009, 81stLeg., R.S., Ch. 1172(H.B. 3389),Sec. 27, eff. September 1, 2009.
Acts 2013, 83rd Leg.,R.S., Ch. 93 (S.B. 686), Sec. 2.06, eff.May 18, 2013.
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 950(S.B. 1849), Sec. 5.03, eff. September 1, 2017.
Art. 2.136. LIABILITY.
A peace officer is not liable for damages arising from an act relating to the collection or
reporting of information as required by Article 2.133 or under a policy adopted under Article
2.132.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
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Art. 2.137. PROVISION OF FUNDING OR EQUIPMENT.
(a) The Department of Public Safety shall adopt rules for providing funds or video and audio
equipment to law enforcement agencies for the purpose of installing video and audio equipment
in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or equipping peace officers with body worn
cameras, including specifying criteria to prioritize funding or equipment provided to law
enforcement agencies. The criteria may include consideration of tax effort, financial hardship,
available revenue, and budget surpluses. The criteria must give priority to:
(1) law enforcement agencies that employ peace officers whose primary duty is traffic
enforcement;
(2) smaller jurisdictions; and
(3) municipal and county law enforcement agencies.
(b) The Department of Public Safety shall collaborate with an institution of higher education to
identify law enforcement agencies that need funds or video and audio equipment for the purpose
of installing video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or
equipping peace officers with body worn cameras. The collaboration may include the use of a
survey to assist in developing criteria to prioritize funding or equipment provided to law
enforcement agencies.
(c) To receive funds or video and audio equipment from the state for the purpose of installing
video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or equipping
peace officers with body worn cameras, the governing body of a county or municipality, in
conjunction with the law enforcement agency serving the county or municipality, shall certify to
the Department of Public Safety that the law enforcement agency needs funds or video and audio
equipment for that purpose.
(d) On receipt of funds or video and audio equipment from the state for the purpose of installing
video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or equipping
peace officers with body worn cameras, the governing body of a county or municipality, in
conjunction with the law enforcement agency serving the county or municipality, shall certify to
the Department of Public Safety that the law enforcement agency has taken the necessary actions
to use and is using video and audio equipment and body worn cameras for those purposes.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 950(S.B. 1849), Sec. 5.04, eff September 1, 2017.
Art. 2.138. RULES.
The Department of Public Safety may adopt rules to implement Articles 2.131-2.137.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
Art. 2.1385. CIVIL PENALTY.
(a) If the chief administrator of a local law enforcement agency intentionally fails to submit the
incident-based data as required by Article 2.134, the agency is liable to the state for a civil
penalty in an amount not to exceed$5,000 for each violation. The attorney general may sue to
collect a civil penalty under this subsection.
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(b) From money appropriated to the agency for the administration of the agency, the executive
director of a state law enforcement agency that intentionally fails to submit the incident-based
data as required by Article 2.134 shall remit to the comptroller the amount of$1,000 for each
violation.
(c) Money collected under this article shall be deposited in the state treasury to the credit of the
general revenue fund.
Added by Acts 2009, 81stLeg.,R.S., Ch. 1172 (KB. 3389), Sec. 29, eff. September 1, 2009.
Amended by:
Acts 2017, 85th Leg.,R.S., Ch. 950(S.B. 1849), Sec. 5.05, eff. September 1, 2017.
Art. 3.05. RACIAL PROFILING.
In this code, "racial profiling" means a law enforcement-initiated action based on an individual's
race, ethnicity, or national origin rather than on the individual's behavior or on information
identifying the individual as having engaged in criminal activity.
Added by Acts 2001, 77th Leg., ch. 947, Sec. 2, eff. Sept. 1, 2001.
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APPENDIX TWO - THE SANDRA BLAND ACT
SB 1849, 2017 Texas Legislative Session
AN ACT
relating to interactions between law enforcement and individuals detained or arrested on
suspicion of the commission of criminal offenses, to the confinement, conviction, or release of
those individuals, and to grants supporting populations that are more likely to interact frequently
with law enforcement.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
ARTICLE 1. SHORT TITLE
SECTION 1.01. SHORT TITLE. This Act shall be known as the Sandra Bland Act, in memory
of Sandra Bland.
ARTICLE 2. IDENTIFICATION AND DIVERSION OF AND SERVICES FOR
PERSONS SUSPECTED OF HAVING A MENTAL ILLNESS,AN INTELLECTUAL
DISABILITY, OR A SUBSTANCE ABUSE ISSUE
SECTION 2.01. Article 16.22, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
Art. 16.22. EARLY IDENTIFICATION OF DEFENDANT SUSPECTED OF HAVING
MENTAL ILLNESS OR INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY. (a)(1) Not later than 12 hours after
receiving credible information that may establish reasonable cause to believe that a defendant
committed to the sheriffs custody has a mental illness or is a person with an intellectual
disability, including observation of the defendant's behavior immediately before, during, and
after the defendant's arrest and the results of any previous assessment of the defendant, the
sheriff shall provide written or electronic notice of the information to the magistrate. On a
determination that there is reasonable cause to believe that the defendant has a mental illness or
is a person with an intellectual disability, the magistrate, except as provided by Subdivision (2),
shall order the local mental health or intellectual and developmental disability authority or
another qualified mental health or intellectual disability expert to:
(A) collect information regarding whether the defendant has a mental illness as defined
by Section 571.003, Health and Safety Code, or is a person with an intellectual disability
as defined by Section 591.003, Health and Safety Code, including information obtained
from any previous assessment of the defendant; and
(B) provide to the magistrate a written assessment of the information collected under
Paragraph (A).
(2) The magistrate is not required to order the collection of information under
Subdivision(1) if the defendant in the year preceding the defendant's applicable
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date of arrest has been determined to have a mental illness or to be a person with
an intellectual disability by the local mental health or intellectual and
developmental disability authority or another mental health or intellectual
disability expert described by Subdivision (1). A court that elects to use the
results of that previous determination may proceed under Subsection(c).
(3) If the defendant fails or refuses to submit to the collection of information
regarding the defendant as required under Subdivision (1), the magistrate may
order the defendant to submit to an examination in a mental health facility
determined to be appropriate by the local mental health or intellectual and
developmental disability authority for a reasonable period not to exceed 21 days.
The magistrate may order a defendant to a facility operated by the Department of
State Health Services or the Health and Human Services Commission for
examination only on request of the local mental health or intellectual and
developmental disability authority and with the consent of the head of the facility.
If a defendant who has been ordered to a facility operated by the Department of
State Health Services or the Health and Human Services Commission for
examination remains in the facility for a period exceeding 21 days, the head of
that facility shall cause the defendant to be immediately transported to the
committing court and placed in the custody of the sheriff of the county in which
the committing court is located. That county shall reimburse the facility for the
mileage and per diem expenses of the personnel required to transport the
defendant calculated in accordance with the state travel regulations in effect at the
time.
(b) A written assessment of the information collected under Subsection(a)(1)(A) shall be
provided to the magistrate not later than the 30th day after the date of any order issued under
Subsection(a) in a felony case and not later than the loth day after the date of any order issued
under that subsection in a misdemeanor case, and the magistrate shall provide copies of the
written assessment to the defense counsel, the prosecuting attorney, and the trial court. The
written assessment must include a description of the procedures used in the collection of
information under Subsection(a)(1)(A) and the applicable expert's observations and findings
pertaining to:
(1) whether the defendant is a person who has a mental illness or is a person with an
intellectual disability;
(2) whether there is clinical evidence to support a belief that the defendant may be
incompetent to stand trial and should undergo a complete competency examination under
Subchapter B, Chapter 46B; and
(3) recommended treatment.
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(c) After the trial court receives the applicable expert's written assessment relating to the
defendant under Subsection(b) or elects to use the results of a previous determination as
described by Subsection (a)(2), the trial court may, as applicable:
(1) resume criminal proceedings against the defendant, including any appropriate
proceedings related to the defendant's release on personal bond under Article 17.032;
(2) resume or initiate competency proceedings, if required, as provided by Chapter 46B
or other proceedings affecting the defendant's receipt of appropriate court-ordered mental
health or intellectual disability services, including proceedings related to the defendant's
receipt of outpatient mental health services under Section 574.034, Health and Safety
Code; or
(3) consider the written assessment during the punishment phase after a conviction of the
offense for which the defendant was arrested, as part of a presentence investigation
report, or in connection with the impositions of conditions following placement on
community supervision, including deferred adjudication community supervision.
(d) This article does not prevent the applicable court from, before, during, or after the collection
of information regarding the defendant as described by this article:
(1) releasing a defendant who has a mental illness or is a person with an intellectual
disability from custody on personal or surety bond; or
(2) ordering an examination regarding the defendant's competency to stand trial.
SECTION 2.02. Chapter 16, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended by adding Article
16.23 to read as follows:
Art. 16.23. DIVERSION OF PERSONS SUFFERING MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS OR
SUBSTANCE ABUSE ISSUE. (a) Each law enforcement agency shall make a good faith effort
to divert a person suffering a mental health crisis or suffering from the effects of substance abuse
to a proper treatment center in the agency's jurisdiction if:
(1) there is an available and appropriate treatment center in the agency's jurisdiction to
which the agency may divert the person;
(2) it is reasonable to divert the person;
(3) the offense that the person is accused of is a misdemeanor, other than a misdemeanor
involving violence; and
(4) the mental health crisis or substance abuse issue is suspected to be the reason the
person committed the alleged offense.
(b) Subsection(a) does not apply to a person who is accused of an offense under Section 49.04,
49.045, 49.05, 49.06, 49.065, 49.07, or 49.08, Penal Code.
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SECTION 2.03. Section 539.002, Government Code, is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 539.002. GRANTS FOR ESTABLISHMENT AND EXPANSION OF COMMUNITY
COLLABORATIVE& (a) To the extent funds are appropriated to the department for that
purpose, the department shall make grants to entities, including local governmental entities,
nonprofit community organizations, and faith-based community organizations, to establish or
expand community collaboratives that bring the public and private sectors together to provide
services to persons experiencing homelessness, substance abuse issues, or mental illness. In
awarding grants, the department shall give special consideration to entities:
(1) establishing new collaboratives; or
(2) establishing or expanding collaboratives that serve two or more counties, each with a
population of less than 100,000.
(b) The department shall require each entity awarded a grant under this section to:
(1) leverage additional funding from private sources in an amount that is at least equal to
the amount of the grant awarded under this section;
(2) provide evidence of significant coordination and collaboration between the entity,
local mental health authorities, municipalities, local law enforcement agencies, and other
community stakeholders in establishing or expanding a community collaborative funded
by a grant awarded under this section; and
(3) provide evidence of a local law enforcement policy to divert appropriate persons
from jails or other detention facilities to an entity affiliated with a community
collaborative for the purpose of providing services to those persons.
SECTION 2.04. Chapter 539, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 539.0051
to read as follows:
Sec. 539.0051. PLAN REQUIRED FOR CERTAIN COMMUNITY COLLABORATIVE& (a)
The governing body of a county shall develop and make public a plan detailing:
(1) how local mental health authorities, municipalities, local law enforcement agencies,
and other community stakeholders in the county could coordinate to establish or expand a
community collaborative to accomplish the goals of Section 539.002;
(2) how entities in the county may leverage funding from private sources to accomplish
the goals of Section 539.002 through the formation or expansion of a community
collaborative; and
(3) how the formation or expansion of a community collaborative could establish or
support resources or services to help local law enforcement agencies to divert persons
who have been arrested to appropriate mental health care or substance abuse treatment.
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(b) The governing body of a county in which an entity that received a grant under Section
539.002 before September 1, 2017, is located is not required to develop a plan under Subsection
(a).
(c) Two or more counties, each with a population of less than 100,000, may form a joint plan
under Subsection (a).
ARTICLE 3. BAIL, PRETRIAL RELEASE,AND COUNTY JAIL STANDARDS
SECTION 3.01. The heading to Article 17.032, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read
as follows:
Art. 17.032. RELEASE ON PERSONAL BOND OF CERTAIN DEFENDANTS WITH
MENTAL ILLNESS OR INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY.
SECTION 3.02. Articles 17.032(b) and(c), Code of Criminal Procedure, are amended to read as
follows:
(b) A magistrate shall release a defendant on personal bond unless good cause is shown
otherwise if the:
(1) defendant is not charged with and has not been previously convicted of a violent
offense;
(2) defendant is examined by the local mental health or intellectual and developmental
disability authority or another mental health expert under Article 16.22;
(3) applicable expert, in a written assessment submitted to the magistrate under Article
16.22:
(A) concludes that the defendant has a mental illness or is a person with an
intellectual disability and is nonetheless competent to stand trial; and
(B) recommends mental health treatment or intellectual disability treatment for
the defendant, as applicable; and
(4) magistrate determines, in consultation with the local mental health or intellectual and
developmental disability authority, that appropriate community-based mental health or
intellectual disability services for the defendant are available through the Department of
State Health Services under Section 534.053, Health and Safety Code, or through another
mental health or intellectual disability services provider.
(c) The magistrate, unless good cause is shown for not requiring treatment, shall require as a
condition of release on personal bond under this article that the defendant submit to outpatient or
inpatient mental health or intellectual disability treatment as recommended by the local mental
health or intellectual and developmental disability authority if the defendant's:
(1) mental illness or intellectual disability is chronic in nature; or
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(2) ability to function independently will continue to deteriorate if the defendant is not
treated.
SECTION 3.03. Article 25.03, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
Art. 25.03. IF ON BAIL IN FELONY. When the accused, in case of felony, is on bail at the
time the indictment is presented, the clerk shall deliver a copy of the indictment to the accused or
the accused's counsel at the earliest possible time.
SECTION 3.04. Article 25.04, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
Art. 25.04. IN MISDEMEANOR. In misdemeanors, the clerk shall deliver a copy of the
indictment or information to the accused or the accused's counsel at the earliest possible time
before trial.
SECTION 3.05. Section 511.009(a), Government Code, as amended by Chapters 281 (H.B.
875), 648 (H.B. 549), and 688 (H.B. 634), Acts of the 84th Legislature, Regular Session, 2015, is
reenacted and amended to read as follows:
(a) The commission shall:
(1) adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum standards for the
construction, equipment, maintenance, and operation of county jails;
(2) adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum standards for the
custody, care, and treatment of prisoners;
(3) adopt reasonable rules establishing minimum standards for the number of jail
supervisory personnel and for programs and services to meet the needs of prisoners;
(4) adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum requirements for
programs of rehabilitation, education, and recreation in county jails;
(5) revise, amend, or change rules and procedures if necessary;
(6) provide to local government officials consultation on and technical assistance for
county jails;
(7) review and comment on plans for the construction and major modification or
renovation of county jails;
(8) require that the sheriff and commissioners of each county submit to the commission,
on a form prescribed by the commission, an annual report on the conditions in each
county jail within their jurisdiction, including all information necessary to determine
compliance with state law, commission orders, and the rules adopted under this chapter;
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(9) review the reports submitted under Subdivision (8) and require commission
employees to inspect county jails regularly to ensure compliance with state law,
commission orders, and rules and procedures adopted under this chapter;
(10) adopt a classification system to assist sheriffs and judges in determining which
defendants are low-risk and consequently suitable participants in a county jail work
release program under Article 42.034, Code of Criminal Procedure;
(11) adopt rules relating to requirements for segregation of classes of inmates and to
capacities for county jails;
(12) require that the chief jailer of each municipal lockup submit to the commission, on a
form prescribed by the commission, an annual report of persons under 17 years of age
securely detained in the lockup, including all information necessary to determine
compliance with state law concerning secure confinement of children in municipal
lockups;
(13) at least annually determine whether each county jail is in compliance with the rules
and procedures adopted under this chapter;
(14) require that the sheriff and commissioners court of each county submit to the
commission, on a form prescribed by the commission, an annual report of persons under
17 years of age securely detained in the county jail, including all information necessary to
determine compliance with state law concerning secure confinement of children in
county jails;
(15) schedule announced and unannounced inspections of jails under the commission's
jurisdiction using the risk assessment plan established under Section 511.0085 to guide
the inspections process;
(16) adopt a policy for gathering and distributing to jails under the commission's
jurisdiction information regarding:
(A) common issues concerning jail administration;
(B) examples of successful strategies for maintaining compliance with state law
and the rules, standards, and procedures of the commission; and
(C) solutions to operational challenges for jails;
(17) report to the Texas Correctional Office on Offenders with Medical or Mental
Impairments on a jail's compliance with Article 16.22, Code of Criminal Procedure;
(18) adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum requirements for jails
to:
(A) determine if a prisoner is pregnant; and
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(B) ensure that the jail's health services plan addresses medical and mental health
care, including nutritional requirements, and any special housing or work
assignment needs for persons who are confined in the jail and are known or
determined to be pregnant;
(19) provide guidelines to sheriffs regarding contracts between a sheriff and another
entity for the provision of food services to or the operation of a commissary in a jail
under the commission's jurisdiction, including specific provisions regarding conflicts of
interest and avoiding the appearance of impropriety;
(20) adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum standards for prisoner
visitation that provide each prisoner at a county jail with a minimum of two in-person,
noncontact visitation periods per week of at least 20 minutes duration each;
(21) require the sheriff of each county to:
(A) investigate and verify the veteran status of each prisoner by using data made
available from the Veterans Reentry Search Service (VRSS) operated by the
United States Department of Veterans Affairs or a similar service; and
(B) use the data described by Paragraph (A)to assist prisoners who are veterans
in applying for federal benefits or compensation for which the prisoners may be
eligible under a program administered by the United States Department of
Veterans Affairs;
(22) adopt reasonable rules and procedures regarding visitation of a prisoner at a county
jail by a guardian, as defined by Section 1002.012, Estates Code, that:
(A) allow visitation by a guardian to the same extent as the prisoner's next of kin,
including placing the guardian on the prisoner's approved visitors list on the
guardian's request and providing the guardian access to the prisoner during a
facility's standard visitation hours if the prisoner is otherwise eligible to receive
visitors; and
(B) require the guardian to provide the sheriff with letters of guardianship issued
as provided by Section 1106.001, Estates Code, before being allowed to visit the
prisoner; and
(23) adopt reasonable rules and procedures to ensure the safety of prisoners, including
rules and procedures that require a county jail to:
(A) give prisoners the ability to access a mental health professional at the jail
through a telemental health service 24 hours a day;
(B) give prisoners the ability to access a health professional at the jail or through
a telehealth service 24 hours a day or, if a health professional is unavailable at the
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jail or through a telehealth service,provide for a prisoner to be transported to
access a health professional; and
(C) if funding is available under Section 511.019, install automated electronic
sensors or cameras to ensure accurate and timely in-person checks of cells or
groups of cells confining at-risk individuals.
SECTION 3.06. Section 511.009, Government Code, is amended by adding Subsection (d) to
read as follows:
(d) The commission shall adopt reasonable rules and procedures establishing minimum
standards regarding the continuity of prescription medications for the care and treatment of
prisoners. The rules and procedures shall require that a qualified medical professional shall
review as soon as possible any prescription medication a prisoner is taking when the prisoner is
taken into custody.
SECTION 3.07. Chapter 511, Government Code, is amended by adding Sections 511.019,
511.020, and 511.021 to read as follows:
Sec. 511.019. PRISONER SAFETY FUND. (a) The prisoner safety fund is a dedicated account
in the general revenue fund.
(b) The prisoner safety fund consists of:
(1) appropriations of money to the fund by the legislature; and
(2) gifts, grants, including grants from the federal government, and other donations
received for the fund.
(c) Money in the fund may be appropriated only to the commission to pay for capital
improvements that are required under Section 511.009(a)(23).
(d) The commission by rule may establish a grant program to provide grants to counties to fund
capital improvements described by Subsection(c). The commission may only provide a grant to
a county for capital improvements to a county jail with a capacity of not more than 96 prisoners.
Sec. 511.020. SERIOUS INCIDENTS REPORT. (a) On or before the fifth day of each month,
the sheriff of each county shall report to the commission regarding the occurrence during the
preceding month of any of the following incidents involving a prisoner in the county jail:
(1) a suicide;
(2) an attempted suicide;
(3) a death;
(4) a serious bodily injury, as that term is defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code;
(5) an assault;
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(6) an escape;
(7) a sexual assault; and
(8) any use of force resulting in bodily injury, as that term is defined by Section 1.07,
Penal Code.
(b) The commission shall prescribe a form for the report required by Subsection(a).
(c) The information required to be reported under Subsection(a)(8) may not include the name or
other identifying information of a county jailer or jail employee.
(d) The information reported under Subsection (a) is public information subject to an open
records request under Chapter 552.
Sec. 511.021. INDEPENDENT INVESTIGATION OF DEATH OCCURRING IN COUNTY
JAIL. (a) On the death of a prisoner in a county jail, the commission shall appoint a law
enforcement agency, other than the local law enforcement agency that operates the county jail, to
investigate the death as soon as possible.
(b) The commission shall adopt any rules necessary relating to the appointment of a law
enforcement agency under Subsection (a), including rules relating to cooperation between law
enforcement agencies and to procedures for handling evidence.
SECTION 3.08. The changes in law made by this article to Article 17.032, Code of Criminal
Procedure, apply only to a personal bond that is executed on or after the effective date of this
Act. A personal bond executed before the effective date of this Act is governed by the law in
effect when the personal bond was executed, and the former law is continued in effect for that
purpose.
SECTION 3.09. Not later than January 1, 2018, the Commission on Jail Standards shall:
(1) adopt the rules and procedures required by Section 511.009(d), Government Code, as added
by this article, and the rules required by Section 511.021(b), Government Code, as added by this
article; and
(2) prescribe the form required by Section 511.020(b), Government Code, as added by this
article.
SECTION 3.10. Not later than September 1, 2018, the Commission on Jail Standards shall adopt
the rules and procedures required by Section 511.009(a)(23), Government Code, as added by this
article. On and after September 1, 2020, a county jail shall comply with any rule or procedure
adopted by the Commission on Jail Standards under that subdivision.
SECTION 3.11. To the extent of any conflict, this Act prevails over another Act of the 85th
Legislature, Regular Session, 2017, relating to non-substantive additions to and corrections in
enacted codes.
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ARTICLE 4. PEACE OFFICER AND COUNTY JAILER TRAINING
SECTION 4.01. Chapter 511, Government Code, is amended by adding Section 511.00905 to
read as follows:
Sec. 511.00905. JAIL ADMINISTRATOR POSITION; EXAMINATION REQUIRED. (a)
The Texas Commission on Law Enforcement shall develop and the commission shall approve an
examination for a person assigned to the jail administrator position overseeing a county jail.
(b) The commission shall adopt rules requiring a person, other than a sheriff, assigned to the jail
administrator position overseeing a county jail to pass the examination not later than the 180th
day after the date the person is assigned to that position. The rules must provide that a person
who fails the examination may be immediately removed from the position and may not be
reinstated until the person passes the examination.
(c) The sheriff of a county shall perform the duties of the jail administrator position at any time
there is not a person available who satisfies the examination requirements of this section.
(d) A person other than a sheriff may not serve in the jail administrator position of a county jail
unless the person satisfies the examination requirement of this section.
SECTION 4.02. Section 1701.253, Occupations Code, is amended by amending Subsection 0)
and adding Subsection(n) to read as follows:
0) As part of the minimum curriculum requirements, the commission shall require an officer to
complete a 40-hour statewide education and training program on de-escalation and crisis
intervention techniques to facilitate interaction with persons with mental impairments. An
officer shall complete the program not later than the second anniversary of the date the officer is
licensed under this chapter or the date the officer applies for an intermediate proficiency
certificate, whichever date is earlier. An officer may not satisfy the requirements of this
subsection or Section 1701.402(g) by taking an online course on de-escalation and crisis
intervention techniques to facilitate interaction with persons with mental impairments.
(n) As part of the minimum curriculum requirements, the commission shall require an officer to
complete a statewide education and training program on de-escalation techniques to facilitate
interaction with members of the public, including techniques for limiting the use of force
resulting in bodily injury.
SECTION 4.03. Section 1701.310(a), Occupations Code, is amended to read as follows:
(a) Except as provided by Subsection (e), a person may not be appointed as a county jailer,
except on a temporary basis, unless the person has satisfactorily completed a preparatory training
program, as required by the commission, in the operation of a county jail at a school operated or
licensed by the commission. The training program must consist of at least eight hours of mental
health training approved by the commission and the Commission on Jail Standards.
SECTION 4.04. Section 1701.352(b), Occupations Code, is amended to read as follows:
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(b) The commission shall require a state, county, special district, or municipal agency that
appoints or employs peace officers to provide each peace officer with a training program at least
once every 48 months that is approved by the commission and consists of:
(1) topics selected by the agency; and
(2) for an officer holding only a basic proficiency certificate, not more than 20 hours of
education and training that contain curricula incorporating the learning objectives
developed by the commission regarding:
(A) civil rights, racial sensitivity, and cultural diversity;
(B) de-escalation and crisis intervention techniques to facilitate interaction with
persons with mental impairments;
(C) de-escalation techniques to facilitate interaction with members of the public,
including techniques for limiting the use of force resulting in bodily injury; and
(D) unless determined by the agency head to be inconsistent with the officer's
assigned duties:
(i) the recognition and documentation of cases that involve child abuse or
neglect, family violence, and sexual assault; and
(ii) issues concerning sex offender characteristics.
SECTION 4.05. Section 1701.402, Occupations Code, is amended by adding Subsection (n) to
read as follows:
(n) As a requirement for an intermediate proficiency certificate or an advanced proficiency
certificate, an officer must complete the education and training program regarding de-escalation
techniques to facilitate interaction with members of the public established by the commission
under Section 1701.253(n).
SECTION 4.06. Not later than March 1, 2018, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
shall develop and the Commission on Jail Standards shall approve the examination required by
Section 511.00905, Government Code, as added by this article.
SECTION 4.07. (a) Not later than March 1, 2018, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
shall establish or modify training programs as necessary to comply with Section 1701.253,
Occupations Code, as amended by this article.
(b) The minimum curriculum requirements under Section 1701.2530), Occupations Code, as
amended by this article, apply only to a peace officer who first begins to satisfy those
requirements on or after April 1, 2018.
SECTION 4.08. (a) Section 1701.310, Occupations Code, as amended by this article, takes
effect January 1, 2018.
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(b) A person in the position of county jailer on September 1, 2017, must comply with Section
1701.310(a), Occupations Code, as amended by this article, not later than August 31, 2022.
ARTICLE 5. MOTOR VEHICLE STOPS, RACIAL PROFILING,AND ISSUANCE OF
CITATIONS
SECTION 5.01. Article 2.132, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended by amending
Subsections (b) and(d) and adding Subsection(h) to read as follows:
(b) Each law enforcement agency in this state shall adopt a detailed written policy on racial
profiling. The policy must:
(1) clearly define acts constituting racial profiling;
(2) strictly prohibit peace officers employed by the agency from engaging in racial
profiling;
(3) implement a process by which an individual may file a complaint with the agency if
the individual believes that a peace officer employed by the agency has engaged in racial
profiling with respect to the individual;
(4) provide public education relating to the agency's compliment and complaint process,
including providing the telephone number, mailing address, and e-mail address to make a
compliment or complaint with respect to each ticket, citation, or warning issued by a
peace officer;
(5) require appropriate corrective action to be taken against a peace officer employed by
the agency who, after an investigation, is shown to have engaged in racial profiling in
violation of the agency's policy adopted under this article;
(6) require collection of information relating to motor vehicle stops in which a ticket,
citation, or warning is issued and to arrests made as a result of those stops, including
information relating to:
(A) the race or ethnicity of the individual detained;
(B) whether a search was conducted and, if so, whether the individual detained
consented to the search;
(C) whether the peace officer knew the race or ethnicity of the individual
detained before detaining that individual;
(D) whether the peace officer used physical force that resulted in bodily injury, as
that term is defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code, during the stop;
(E) the location of the stop; and
(F) the reason for the stop; and
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(7) require the chief administrator of the agency, regardless of whether the administrator
is elected, employed, or appointed, to submit an annual report of the information
collected under Subdivision(6) to:
(A) the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement; and
(B) the governing body of each county or municipality served by the agency, if
the agency is an agency of a county, municipality, or other political subdivision of
the state.
(d) On adoption of a policy under Subsection (b), a law enforcement agency shall examine the
feasibility of installing video camera and transmitter-activated equipment in each agency law
enforcement motor vehicle regularly used to make motor vehicle stops and transmitter-activated
equipment in each agency law enforcement motorcycle regularly used to make motor vehicle
stops. The agency also shall examine the feasibility of equipping each peace officer who
regularly detains or stops motor vehicles with a body worn camera, as that term is defined by
Section 1701.651, Occupations Code. If a law enforcement agency installs video or audio
equipment or equips peace officers with body worn cameras as provided by this subsection, the
policy adopted by the agency under Subsection(b) must include standards for reviewing video
and audio documentation.
(h) A law enforcement agency shall review the data collected under Subsection(b)(6)to identify
any improvements the agency could make in its practices and policies regarding motor vehicle
stops.
SECTION 5.02. Article 2.133, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended by amending
Subsection(b) and adding Subsection(c)to read as follows:
(b) A peace officer who stops a motor vehicle for an alleged violation of a law or ordinance
shall report to the law enforcement agency that employs the officer information relating to the
stop, including:
(1) a physical description of any person operating the motor vehicle who is detained as a
result of the stop, including:
(A) the person's gender; and
(B) the person's race or ethnicity, as stated by the person or, if the person does
not state the person's race or ethnicity, as determined by the officer to the best of
the officer's ability;
(2) the initial reason for the stop;
(3) whether the officer conducted a search as a result of the stop and, if so, whether the
person detained consented to the search;
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(4) whether any contraband or other evidence was discovered in the course of the search
and a description of the contraband or evidence;
(5) the reason for the search, including whether:
(A) any contraband or other evidence was in plain view;
(B) any probable cause or reasonable suspicion existed to perform the search; or
(C) the search was performed as a result of the towing of the motor vehicle or the
arrest of any person in the motor vehicle;
(6) whether the officer made an arrest as a result of the stop or the search, including a
statement of whether the arrest was based on a violation of the Penal Code, a violation of
a traffic law or ordinance, or an outstanding warrant and a statement of the offense
charged;
(7) the street address or approximate location of the stop;
(8) whether the officer issued a verbal or written warning or a ticket or citation as a result
of the stop; and
(9) whether the officer used physical force that resulted in bodily injury, as that term is
defined by Section 1.07, Penal Code, during the stop.
(c) The chief administrator of a law enforcement agency,regardless of whether the administrator
is elected, employed, or appointed, is responsible for auditing reports under Subsection (b) to
ensure that the race or ethnicity of the person operating the motor vehicle is being reported.
SECTION 5.03. Article 2.134(c), Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
(c) A report required under Subsection(b) must be submitted by the chief administrator of the
law enforcement agency, regardless of whether the administrator is elected, employed, or
appointed, and must include:
(1) a comparative analysis of the information compiled under Article 2.133 to:
(A) evaluate and compare the number of motor vehicle stops, within the
applicable jurisdiction, of persons who are recognized as racial or ethnic
minorities and persons who are not recognized as racial or ethnic minorities;
(B) examine the disposition of motor vehicle stops made by officers employed by
the agency, categorized according to the race or ethnicity of the affected persons,
as appropriate, including any searches resulting from stops within the applicable
jurisdiction; and
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(C) evaluate and compare the number of searches resulting from motor vehicle
stops within the applicable jurisdiction and whether contraband or other evidence
was discovered in the course of those searches; and
(2) information relating to each complaint filed with the agency alleging that a peace
officer employed by the agency has engaged in racial profiling.
SECTION 5.04. Article 2.137, Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
Art. 2.137. PROVISION OF FUNDING OR EQUIPMENT. (a) The Department of Public
Safety shall adopt rules for providing funds or video and audio equipment to law enforcement
agencies for the purpose of installing video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor
vehicles and motorcycles or equipping peace officers with body worn cameras, including
specifying criteria to prioritize funding or equipment provided to law enforcement agencies. The
criteria may include consideration of tax effort, financial hardship, available revenue, and budget
surpluses. The criteria must give priority to:
(1) law enforcement agencies that employ peace officers whose primary duty is traffic
enforcement;
(2) smaller jurisdictions; and
(3) municipal and county law enforcement agencies.
(b) The Department of Public Safety shall collaborate with an institution of higher education to
identify law enforcement agencies that need funds or video and audio equipment for the purpose
of installing video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or
equipping peace officers with body worn cameras. The collaboration may include the use of a
survey to assist in developing criteria to prioritize funding or equipment provided to law
enforcement agencies.
(c) To receive funds or video and audio equipment from the state for the purpose of installing
video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or equipping
peace officers with body worn cameras, the governing body of a county or municipality, in
conjunction with the law enforcement agency serving the county or municipality, shall certify to
the Department of Public Safety that the law enforcement agency needs funds or video and audio
equipment for that purpose.
(d) On receipt of funds or video and audio equipment from the state for the purpose of installing
video and audio equipment in law enforcement motor vehicles and motorcycles or equipping
peace officers with body worn cameras the governing body of a county or municipality, in
conjunction with the law enforcement agency serving the county or municipality, shall certify to
the Department of Public Safety that the law enforcement agency has taken the necessary actions
to use and is using video and audio equipment and body worn cameras for those purposes.
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SECTION 5.05. Article 2.1385(a), Code of Criminal Procedure, is amended to read as follows:
(a) If the chief administrator of a local law enforcement agency intentionally fails to submit the
incident-based data as required by Article 2.134, the agency is liable to the state for a civil
penalty in an amount not to exceed$5,000 for each violation. The attorney general may sue to
collect a civil penalty under this subsection.
SECTION 5.06. Article 2.135, Code of Criminal Procedure, is repealed.
SECTION 5.07. Articles 2.132 and 2.134, Code of Criminal Procedure, as amended by this
article, apply only to a report covering a calendar year beginning on or after January 1, 2018.
SECTION 5.08. Not later than September 1, 2018, the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement
shall:
(1) evaluate and change the guidelines for compiling and reporting information required
under Article 2.134, Code of Criminal Procedure, as amended by this article, to enable
the guidelines to better withstand academic scrutiny; and
(2) make accessible online:
(A) a downloadable format of any information submitted under Article 2.134(b),
Code of Criminal Procedure, that is not exempt from public disclosure under
Chapter 552, Government Code; and
(B) a glossary of terms relating to the information to make the information
readily understandable to the public.
ARTICLE 6. EFFECTIVE DATE
SECTION 6.01. Except as otherwise provided by this Act, this Act takes effect September 1,
2017.
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APPENDIX THREE - BIAS BASED POLICING
Denton Police Department General Order 501
Subject: Bias-Based Policing
Issued: May 12, 2025
501.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This order provides guidance to department members that affirms the Denton Police Department's
commitment to policing that is fair and objective.
Nothing in this order prohibits the use of specified characteristics in law enforcement activities
designed to strengthen the department's relationship with its diverse communities(e.g., cultural and
ethnicity awareness training,youth programs, community group outreach and partnerships).
501 .1.1 DEFINITIONS
Definitions related to this policy include:
Bias-based policing or improper profiling-An inappropriate reliance on actual or perceived
characteristics such as race, ethnicity, national origin (including limited English proficiency), religion,
sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, economic status, age, cultural group,
disability, or affiliation with any non-criminal group (protected characteristics) as the basis for
providing differing law enforcement service or enforcement (Tex. Code of Crim. Pro. art. 2B.0051).
This includes explicit and implicit biases (i.e., conscious and unconscious beliefs or attitudes toward
certain groups).
501.2 POLICY
The Denton Police Department is committed to providing law enforcement services to the
community with due regard for the racial, cultural, or other differences of those served. It is the
policy of this department to provide law enforcement services and to enforce the law equally,
fairly, objectively, and without discrimination toward any individual or group (Tex. Code of Crim. Pro.
art. 2B.0053).
501.3 BIAS-BASED POLICING PROHIBITED
Bias-based policing is strictly prohibited.
However, nothing in this order is intended to prohibit an officer from considering protected
characteristics in combination with credible,timely and distinct information connecting a person or
people of a specific characteristic to a specific unlawful incident, or to specific unlawful
incidents, specific criminal patterns or specific schemes.
501.4 MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES
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Every member of this department shall perform their duties in a fair and objective manner and is
responsible for promptly reporting any suspected or known instances of bias-based policing to a
supervisor. Members shall, when reasonable to do so, intervene to prevent any bias-based actions
by another member.
Actions prohibited by this order shall be cause for disciplinary action, up to and including indefinite
suspension.
501 .4.1 REASON FOR CONTACT
Officers contacting a person shall be prepared to articulate sufficient reason for the contact,
independent of the protected characteristics of the individual.
To the extent that written documentation would otherwise be completed (e.g., arrest report,field
interview(FI) card),the involved officer should include those facts giving rise to the contact, as
applicable.
Except for required data-collection forms or methods, nothing in this order shall require any officer
to document a contact that would not otherwise require reporting.
501 .4.2 REPORTING TRAFFIC STOPS
The Assistant Chief should ensure that the Department has appropriate systems in place to collect
information required by state racial profiling laws.
Each time an officer makes a traffic stop,the officer shall gather the required information using the
system in place for racial profiling reporting(Tex. Code of Crim. Pro. art. 2B.0054).
501.5 SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervisors shall monitor those individuals under their command for compliance with this order
and shall handle any alleged or observed violations in accordance with the Administrative
Investigations General Order.
a. Supervisors shall discuss any issues with the involved officer and their supervisor in a timely
manner.
1. Supervisors shall document these discussions in the prescribed manner.
b. Supervisors shall periodically review Mobile Audio/Video (MAV) recordings, body-worn
camera (BWC) media, Mobile Data Computer(MDC) data, and any other available resource
used to document contact between officers and the public to ensure compliance with this
order(Tex. Code of Crim. Pro. art. 2B.0151).
1. Supervisors shall document these periodic reviews.
2. At least every six months, supervisory reviews shall include at least three random
BWC and/or MAV videos for each officer.
3. Recordings or data that capture a potential instance of bias-based policing shall be
appropriately retained for administrative investigation purposes.
c. Supervisors shall initiate investigations of any actual or alleged violations of this order.
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d. Supervisors shall take prompt and reasonable steps to address any retaliatory action taken
against any member of this department who discloses information concerning bias-based
policing.
501.6 STATE REPORTING
The Chief of Police shall submit a report to the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement(TCOLE) and
to each governing body served by the Department by March 1 of each year in accordance with Tex.
Code of Crim. Pro. art. 213.0055.
The report may not include identifying information about the officer who made the traffic stop or
about any individual who was stopped or arrested (Tex. Code of Crim. Pro. art. 213.0055).
501.7 ADMINISTRATION
The Assistant Chief should review the efforts of the Department to provide fair and objective
policing and submit an annual report, including public concerns and complaints, to the Chief of
Police.The annual report should not contain any identifying information about any specific
complaint, member of the public, or officer. It should be reviewed by the Chief of Police to identify
any changes in training or operations that should be made to improve service (Tex. Code of Crim.
Pro. art. 213.0053).
Supervisors should review the annual report and the report submitted to TCOLE and discuss the
results with those they are assigned to supervise.
501.8 COMPLIMENTS AND COMPLAINTS
The Chief of Police is responsible for educating the public on the Department's compliment and
complaint process(see the Administrative Investigations General Order).This education may be
achieved by information provided through the Department website, on citations, and warnings as
prescribed by law.This information shall include the telephone number, mailing address, and e-mail
address to make a compliment or complaint regarding a ticket, citation, or warning issued by an
officer.
In the event that an investigation is initiated against an officer for a violation of this order,the
Assistant Chief of Police should ensure that a copy of any related recording is provided as soon as
practicable to the officer upon written request(Tex. Code of Crim. Pro. art. 213.0053).
501.9 TRAINING
Training on fair and objective policing and review of this order shall be conducted annually and
include:
a. Explicit and implicit biases.
b. Avoiding improper profiling.
APPENDIX FOUR - PORTABLE AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDERS
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Denton Police Department General Order 704
Subject: Portable Audio/Video Recorders
Effective Date: April 2, 2022
704.1 PURPOSE AND SCOPE
This general order provides guidelines for the use of portable audio/video recording devices by
members of this department while in the performance of their duties. Portable audio/video
recording devices include all recording systems whether body-worn, hand-held or integrated into
portable equipment.
This general order does not apply to mobile audio/video recordings, interviews or interrogations
conducted at any Denton Police Department facility, authorized undercover operations, wiretaps or
eavesdropping(concealed listening devices).
Additional related provisions are in the Records Maintenance and Release and Protected
Information general orders.
(f) Ensuring that Texas Commission on Law Enforcement(TCOLE)training is provided to members
who are assigned to wear body-worn recording devices and any other personnel who may come
into contact with data obtained from the devices (Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.656).
(g) Establishing procedures for making backup copies of recordings(Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.655).
704.2 POLICY
The Denton Police Department will provide members with access to portable recorders, including
body worn cameras,for use during the performance of their duties.The use of recorders is intended
to enhance the mission of the Department by accurately capturing contacts between members of
the Department and the public.
Members shall not surreptitiously record another Denton Police Department member without a
court order, unless lawfully authorized by the Chief of Police or the authorized designee.
Members will not release any recordings without prior authorization by the Chief of Police or
authorized designee. Any release without authorization will be a violation of this order and will
result in disciplinary action, up to and including indefinite suspension.
704.3 COORDINATOR
The Chief of Police or the authorized designee should designate a coordinator responsible for:
a. Establishing procedures for the security, storage, and maintenance of data and recordings.
b. Establishing procedures for accessing data and recordings.
c. Establishing procedures for logging or auditing access.
d. Establishing procedures for transferring, downloading,tagging, or marking events.
e. Preparing the annual report required by Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.653.
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f. Ensuring that Texas Commission on Law Enforcement(TCOLE)training is provided to
members who are assigned to wear body-worn recording devices and any other personnel
who may come into contact with data obtained from the devices(Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.656).
g. Establishing procedures for making backup copies of recordings (Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.655).
h. Establishing procedures for the collection of a body worn camera (Tex. Occ. Code §
1701.655).
704.4 MEMBER PRIVACY EXPECTATION
All recordings made by members on any department-issued device at any time, and any recording
made while acting in an official capacity of this department, regardless of ownership of the device it
was made on, shall remain the property of the Department. Members shall have no expectation of
privacy or ownership interest in the content of these recordings.
704.5 MEMBER RESPONSIBILITIES
Prior to going into service, each uniformed member working patrol and/or in an enforcement
capacity will be responsible for making sure that they are equipped with a portable recorder(body
worn camera (BWC)), issued by the Department, and that the recorder is in good working order.
Employees who discover an operational defect with the BWC system will attempt to correct the
system following the received training on the device(i.e., reseating cables, cycling the power, etc.). If
the recorder is not in working order or the member becomes aware of a malfunction at any time,
the member shall promptly report the failure to their supervisor and obtain a functioning device as
soon as reasonably practicable. Uniformed members shall wear the recorder in a conspicuous
manner or otherwise notify persons that they are being recorded, whenever reasonably practicable.
Any member assigned to a non-uniformed position may carry an approved portable recorder at any
time the member believes that such a device may be useful. Unless conducting a lawful recording in
an authorized undercover capacity, non-uniformed members should wear the recorder in a
conspicuous manner when in use or otherwise notify persons that they are being recorded,
whenever reasonably practicable.
When using a recorder,the assigned member shall record their name, DPD identification number
and the current date and time at the beginning of the shift or other period of use, regardless of
whether any activity was recorded. Employees will review the recording to verify the BWC
microphone is operational, and the date and time is accurate.This procedure is not required when
the recording device and related software captures the user's unique identification and the date and
time of each recording. Unless otherwise authorized by the Chief of Police or their designee, BWC's
will be worn consistent with the training and manufacturer's recommendations, in regards to fields
of view and officer safety.
Members should document the existence of a recording in any report or other official record of the
contact, including any instance where the recorder malfunctioned or the member deactivated the
recording(Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.655). Members should include the reason for deactivation. In
addition, members should document instances where the member did not activate the device at all
and the reason for such decision (Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.657).
Officers that are issued a BWC will be required to utilize the BWC when engaging in off-duty
overtime.
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Employees shall not:
a. Bypass or attempt to override the equipment.
b. Erase, alter, or delete any recording produced by the BWC.
704.6 ACTIVATION OF THE AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDER
This order is not intended to describe every possible situation in which the recorder should be used,
although there are many situations where its use is appropriate. Members shall activate the
recorder any time the member believes it would be appropriate or valuable to record an incident.
The recorder shall be activated in any of the following situations:
a. All enforcement and investigative contacts including stops and field interview situations;
b. Traffic stops including, but not limited to, traffic violations, stranded motorist assistance and
all crime interdiction stops;
c. Self-initiated activity in which an officer would normally notify Public Safety Communications;
d. Any other contact that becomes adversarial after the initial contact in a situation that would
not otherwise require recording;
e. Whenever a person is sitting in or being transported in a police vehicle for any purpose, such
as:
1. Being arrested;
2. Assisting a stranded motorist(ie.taking a motorist to get gas) or courtesy rides;
3. Waiting in the vehicle,for any reason; or
4. Conducting an interview.
f. When dispatched and enroute to a call for service.
704.6.1 VICTIM AND WITNESS STATEMENTS
When conducting an investigation, the officer shall attempt to record the crime victim or witness'
statement with the body worn camera. The recording may be valuable evidence that contributes to
or compliments an investigation. While evidence collection is important, the department also
recognizes it is important for officers to maintain credibility with people wanting to share
information with law enforcement. On occasion, an officer may encounter a reluctant crime victim
or witness who does not wish to make a statement on camera. In these situations, the officer should
continue to develop rapport with the individual while balancing the need for evidence collection with
the individual's request for privacy. Should the officer use discretion and not record the crime victim
or witness statement with the body worn camera,the officer should document the reason for not
fully recording the statement with the body worn camera. In these instances, officers may still
record with an audio recorder. Officers should work with the department victim services unit when
possible in determining what type of statement will be taken.
a. If a citizen, other than a victim or witness as described in this section requests that an officer
turn off the BWC,the officer will explain that DPD General Orders requires the camera to be
activated and recording until the conclusion of the incident or until there is no further law
enforcement action necessary.
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At no time is a member expected to jeopardize their safety in order to activate a portable recorder
or change the recording media. However,the recorder should be activated in situations described
above as soon as reasonably practicable.
704.6.2 CESSATION OF RECORDING
Once activated,the portable recorder shall remain on continuously until the member reasonably
believes that their direct participation in the incident is complete or the situation no longer fits the
criteria for activation. Recording may be stopped during significant periods of inactivity such as
report writing or other breaks from direct participation in the incident.
a. For purposes of this section, conclusion of an incident has occurred when:
1. All arrests have been made and arrestees have been transported; and
2. No further law enforcement action is likely to occur.
704.6.3 SURREPTITIOUS USE OF THE AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDER
Texas law permits an individual to surreptitiously record any conversation in which one party to the
conversation has given their permission (Tex. Penal Code § 16.02).
Members may surreptitiously record any conversation during the course of a criminal investigation
in which the member reasonably believes that such a recording will be lawful and beneficial to the
investigation.
Members shall not surreptitiously record another department member without a court order unless
lawfully authorized by the Chief of Police or the authorized designee.
704.6.4 EXPLOSIVE DEVICE
Many portable recorders, including body-worn cameras and audio/video transmitters, emit radio
waves that could trigger an explosive device.Therefore, these devices should not be used where an
explosive device may be present.
704.6.5 WHEN BWC SYSTEM USE IS NOT REQUIRED
Activation of the BWC system is not required:
a. During break and lunch periods;
b. When not in service and not on a call; or
c. When in service, but not on a call.
d. Employees will not utilize the body worn camera in the following circumstances:
1. A potential witness who requests to speak to an officer confidentially or desires
anonymity;
2. A victim or witness who requests that they not be recorded as a condition of
cooperation and the interests of justice require such cooperation;
3. During tactical briefings, or the discussion of safety and security procedures;
4. Public or private locker rooms, changing rooms, restrooms, unless taking police
action;
5. Doctor's or lawyer's offices, unless taking police action;
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6. Medical or hospital facilities, unless taking police action;
7. At a school,where minor children are present, unless taking police action;
8. While in any magistrate's orjudge's office or in any courtroom, except under exigent
circumstances; i.e. police action being taken;
9. During departmental or supervisory meetings; or
10. For administrative reasons.
e. For purposes of this section, an "administrative reason" refers to:
1. Personal conversations unrelated to the incident being recorded;
2. Officer to officer training(e.g.,when a Field Training Officer or Supervisor wishes to
speak to an officer enrolled in the Field Training Program about a training issue);
3. The conclusion of an incident; or
4. Any reason authorized by a supervisor.The identity of the supervisor granting the
authorization shall also be stated prior to the deactivation.
f. Officers cannot be compelled to record their entire work shift.
704.7 PROHIBITED USE OF PORTABLE RECORDERS
Members are prohibited from using department-issued portable recorders and recording media for
personal use and are prohibited from making personal copies of recordings created while on-duty
or while acting in an official capacity.
Members are also prohibited from retaining recordings of activities or information obtained while
on-duty, whether the recording was created with department-issued or personally owned recorders.
Members shall not duplicate or distribute such recordings, except for authorized legitimate
department business purposes.All such recordings shall be retained at the Department.
Members are prohibited from using personally owned recording devices while on-duty without the
express consent of the Lieutenant, and then only if allowed under Tex. Occ. Code § 1701.658.Any
member who uses a personally owned recorder for department-related activities shall comply with
the provisions of this policy, including retention and release requirements, and should notify the on-
duty supervisor of such use as soon as reasonably practicable.
Recordings shall not be used by any member for the purpose of embarrassment, harassment,
horseplay, or ridicule.
704.8 RETENTION OF RECORDINGS
Videos shall be retained for a longer period of time consistent with the City of Denton's Records
Control Schedules and/or the State Local Government Retention Schedules.At a minimum all BWC
recordings shall be retained for 241 days.
704.8.1 RELEASE OF AUDIO/VIDEO RECORDINGS
Copies of a BWC media recording will be used for official DPD business only.This may include public
information requests after the recording has been reviewed by the department legal advisor and
approved for release by the department. Copies of BWC system recordings will not normally be
made unless the person requesting the copy is authorized to view the recording and does not
otherwise have access to view the recording using the BWC system. When a copy is made, it is the
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responsibility of the person receiving the copy to comply with records retention as outlined in the
Records Maintenance and Release General Order.
704.9 IDENTIFICATION AND PRESERVATION OF RECORDINGS
Officers will download the media contained on their BWC utilizing the approved download
procedures (wireless, docking station, etc.).To assist with identifying and preserving data and
recordings, members shall download,tag or mark these in accordance with procedures and
document the existence of the recording in any related case report. Officers shall ensure that the
download process has started prior to the completion of their scheduled tour of duty.
A member shall transfer,tag or mark recordings when the member reasonably believes:
a. The recording contains evidence relevant to potential criminal, civil or administrative
matters;
b. A complainant,victim or witness has requested non-disclosure;
c. A complainant,victim or witness has not requested non-disclosure but the disclosure of the
recording may endanger the person;
d. Disclosure may be an unreasonable violation of someone's privacy;
e. Medical or mental health information is contained;
f. Disclosure may compromise an undercover officer or confidential informant; or
g. The recording or portions of the recording may be protected under Tex. Occ. Code §
1701.660 et seq. or the Texas Public Information Act.
A member need not transfer,tag, or mark recordings when the member reasonably believes the
recording in its totality is a non-event.
a. For purposes of this section, a "non-event"video generally refers to a recording that meets
all of the following criteria:
1. Video where no investigatory stop is made;
2. Video that does not include any call for service;
3. Video where no person has been detained or arrested; and
4. Video where no enforcement action is documented.
Any time a member reasonably believes a recorded contact may be beneficial in a non-criminal
matter(e.g., a hostile contact),the member should promptly notify a supervisor of the existence of
the recording.
Unless involved in a response to resistance incident, an arrest, or directed by a supervisor,
employees utilizing a BWC during overtime are permitted to download their recordings during their
next regularly scheduled work day.
BWC media will be stored utilizing a secure storage server and backed up for redundancy purposes.
All media will be stored utilizing approved security methods in compliance with Criminal Justice
Information Standards(CJIS) standards. A maintenance agreement for the BWC program shall be in
place to ensure the security of all BWC data.
704.10 REVIEW OF RECORDED MEDIA FILES
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When preparing written reports, members should review their recordings as a resource (see the
Officer-Involved Shootings and Deaths General Order for guidance in those cases.)
However, members shall not retain personal copies of recordings. Members should not use the fact
that a recording was made as a reason to write a less detailed report.
Supervisors are authorized to review relevant recordings any time they are investigating alleged
misconduct or reports of meritorious conduct or whenever such recordings would be beneficial in
reviewing a member's performance.
Recorded files may also be reviewed:
a. Upon approval by a supervisor, by any member of the Department who is participating in an
official investigation, such as a personnel complaint, administrative investigation or criminal
investigation.
b. Pursuant to lawful process or by court personnel who are otherwise authorized to review
evidence in a related case.
c. By media personnel with permission of the Chief of Police or the authorized designee.
d. In compliance with a public records request, if permitted, and in accordance with the
Records Maintenance and Release General Order.
e. By a supervisor during periodic reviews for compliance with racial profiling laws(Tex. Code
of Crim. Pro. art. 2.132).
f. Recordings may be shown for the purpose of training. If an involved employee objects to
showing a recording,their objection will be submitted to their Bureau Chief to determine if
the training value outweighs the employee's objection.
g. Recordings containing images of juveniles,victims of crime, or any instance where the video
would not be subject to release shall not be used unless authorized by the Chief of Police.
h. Employees shall not obtain, attempt to obtain, or convert for their personal use or for the
unauthorized use of another person, any information obtained by a BWC system.
i. Employees shall not make personal copies or attempt to upload recordings to social
networking sites(e.g.,You-Tube, Facebook).
j. Employees shall not duplicate, copy, share, or otherwise distribute in any manner BWC
recordings without prior written authorization and approval of the Chief of Police or their
designee. Failure to obtain authorization could result in potential criminal sanctions.
All recordings should be reviewed by the designated member prior to public release (See the
Records Maintenance and Release General Order). Recordings that unreasonably violate a person's
privacy or sense of dignity should not be publicly released unless disclosure is required by law or
order of the court. Members will not release any recordings without prior authorization by the Chief
of Police or authorized designee.Any release without authorization will be a violation of this order
and result in disciplinary action, up to and including indefinite suspension.
Sergeants will conduct quarterly inspections of their employees' BWC recordings to ensure they are
complying with this general order.These inspections will be electronically documented and sent to
the Lieutenant within their chain-of-command.
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APPENDIX FIVE - RACIAL PROFILING TRAINING
Dentin Police Department Lesson Plan
Ar rros ed b>:n:I,I W'
('ourse,'Lessoo: BP( ('1 Raeial Profiling (ounc a:
Class Date:
Developed by Todd Kidvacll Agency:[xenon PD Date Pvepared:OY 11 ?u 1 N
Revised by Todd Kidwell Agency:[knwn PD Date Revised:05 IS_su_`i
Reason for
Change(sl Course Updated❑ TCOLE Update Instructor Revision® Otlw.
Type'Level >--Serice ❑ Basic Peace Of er Course ® Corrections ❑ ManagemA�t El of Course I Legisbtie Mandate ❑ fNermedeiSe ❑ Adrenced-Speaaflzed ❑ Other
Time Allotted: 4 hours Class Sae Unit: Pre-requisite:
Method(s) Dectasor ® 1 Demonstration ® 1 Rol Ply ® Vtstructor Led or Lecture to
of Instruction Ffadicai Exercise ® 1 Praclae ® 1 wependeni ❑ Othar
After this instruction,the student vdl be able to:
I. Identify,the Ictalreyuircments for peace ufficen&law enforcement agcltews rcwrdiru racialprofiling-
'. Wrile the adopted department pulacy on racial profiling
?. Explain Supreme Court deeaiuns and other court decisions regarding traffic stop,and racial profiling.
Learning a. Explain the IeynL ethical and moraIresponskiiities aganst racial profiling
i. Identify logical and sucral arguments against nwialprofiling.
Objectives:
h. Identify clemcntsof racially-motivated traffic stops.
Lis(the elements of lcw l cuntact w iith driv ern a nd occupants of%chicly.
K. Describe the v anus basis for whielc slupy bawd on the legal standatd.
Y. Lad the valid warches and seizures without warrants_
Leaming O,pstun and Answer ® Confererroe ® 'Abstration(Visuals+'Erampfes,l
Techniques
Idesa-abe bebw) Praaice and Dad ® Ra4 Payx g
For each leaming technique selected above,briefly summarise the planned application activities:
The tnslruelomsl will pro%x1c.arwus exalttplcs and questwn and answer aeltlnae]Ihloughuut the cuurw.
Apphtation Various v idcos be used throughout the cuurse to rcnnfowe Icarnina. Students will wort in groups on various
Stage practical exereucs, Students will respond to various role play wcnans during the academy and some
wrnans will nvohe application of tha subject's objectives.
Class Evaluations: YesS WO Exam: KlrillenM Performarxne Ora AforieU Other.
Testing and Minimum Standard:701.on tha unit exam which Atli inv olv c other topics as wcU
Course
Evaluation_ Submit ad exam keys and record grades on hre class roster.Performance exams:e>¢en the actniry&yv adTV r i ra
an the LESSON PLAN aantent.Submit aitique forms I used,or mood a passifail status on the class roster
Intructional Handouts PowerPont Fdp Chart Audio--Visual ley Chalk M e- 3the,
Media: to ® ❑ to Board to
Equipment Needs:wund for embedded v ideos
References::TCOLE Curriculum
Ounnbec legal briefs at yuanbcc-Lum
THE LESSON PLAN CONTENT must be submitted with or follow this cotter page to be a COMPLETE LESSON PLAN.
042010
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